Emily Turkovich

What is your educational background and what positions have you held? Please include the current school district and grade/s.

I am on my third-year teaching 2nd grade at Antietam Elementary in Virginia. I am currently enrolled at Shenandoah University to get my master’s degree in Literacy Education to obtain a reading specialist license.

2. Name one SRU experience, in general or specific to the field, that you will never forget and explain why.

Something I will never forget about SRU is how fun the atmosphere was on a beautiful sunny day. Everyone was always out doing something and noticeably in better moods.

3. Name an SRU faculty that had a positive influence on you and explain why.

Dr. Vetere, Dr. Hilton, and Dr. Pease-Hernandez were all super kind professors that always made class interesting and fun. I felt I learned a lot from them because they truly showed they cared about their students.

4. What initially piqued your interest in pursuing a degree in education?

Growing up I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. I have always loved working with children & loved the idea of getting my own classroom to decorate and make fun for my students.

5. What do you love most about teaching?

My favorite part about teaching is building relationships with my students, and showing them they are loved and they matter. I also love seeing the growth in each student from the beginning to end of the year, after working so hard together.

6. What makes a great teacher?

Someone who can advocate for students and give them the support they need to be successful. Someone who takes the time to get to know their students and make each and every child feel special and important.