Kate Colbert

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

After graduating from Slippery Rock in 2020, I moved to Southpointe and began teaching for a school that I student taught with. This was during the start of the COVID pandemic, so my student teaching location was moved to cyber. I had never thought about teaching cyber before this! After becoming a long term Math and Science substitute for PA Cyber Charter School, I realized how much I enjoyed it. I ended up with a 4th grade Virtual Teacher position with PA Cyber. I have taught 4th grade Language Arts and Social Studies for almost three years now, and I absolutely love it! At first, it was a challenge to try to use engagement in different ways in a cyber setting. I have developed so much creativity within this job, and found a deeper passion in teaching than I ever thought was possible. I am currently going back to Slippery Rock online to pursue my Masters Degree in ABA- Applied Behavioral Analysis.

 

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

I will never forget my field experience at Emily Brittain Elementary School in Butler. I remember feeling so nervous to be teaching in a Kindergarten classroom. At that point, I did not have a lot of experience with this grade level. This was a turning point for me because I remember walking in on the first day feeling like I was not cut out for it. It was a very large class with a variety of different behaviors to monitor. With the help from an amazing cooperating teacher at Emily Brittain and guidance from my professor, I walked out of that classroom on the last day of teaching feeling so beyond confident in my teaching abilities.

 

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

Dr. Lynch was amazing! He was great at connecting with the class on a relatable and an emotional level. I will never forget the quotes about strength through adversity and how engaged I felt with his lessons. "Tough times don't last, but tough people do" was a quote that sticks with me.

 

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

I have always felt a drive to want to be better than what I had experienced in school, and to help children learn and grow. When I was in elementary school, I mostly remember my teachers making me feel negative more often than positive. I never fully felt comfortable or cared for at school as a kid. I want to help students not only build their knowledge, but also learn that they are loved, appreciated, and accepted. In my classroom today, all of my students know that I respect them and care for them always!

 

5. What do you love most about teaching?

My favorite thing about teaching is getting to see the difference in confidence that my students build with me throughout the year. I love hearing from families that their child is more confident after being in my class! I try to implement a growth mindset in my classroom to show them that it is okay not to know how to do something yet. A lot of times I notice that students will get less frustrated when faced with a challenge at the end of the year. 

 

6. What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher is patient and curious. As teachers, we are always learning along with our students! Teaching is not all about the curriculum. Most of the time, it is about meeting a student where they are, and believing in them.

Sarah Butterfield Kumar

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

I received my undergrad in early childhood and special education at SRU. I returned to school online to receive my masters in curriculum and instruction and have a principal certification. 

This is my ninth year in education. I have taught grades K, 3,4, middle school special education, and am now the Associate Principal at Highlands Elementary School.

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

I will never forget the special education trip abroad to Ireland. St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland is an experience I’ll always remember, but seeing schools abroad and the similarities and differences between the American school in Ireland versus schools in America blew me away. However, one thing remained the same, the students loved being in the classroom with their teachers, the most important part of the education system. 

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

Drs. Katsafanas and Snyder were two professors I looked up to during my time at SRU and still do today. 

Dr. Snyder presented to two of the elementary schools I taught at and shared his book about what’s it’s like to be a veteran. The students were hanging onto his every word. I felt so fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from him. 

Dr. Katsafanas is the most kind and patient professor and teacher I have ever met. She is also the most stylish! I remember her genuine compassion and love for special education and I kept that in mind during my first job as an emotional support teacher.

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

I always wanted to be a teacher. No other profession ever crossed my mind, because I loved school so much. I remember “teaching” my brother in my parents’ basement. My mom had bought a desk and chairs from my elementary school and I was so excited to have my own school at home. To this day there is nothing I would rather do than be in a school with children. 

5. What do you love most about teaching?

My favorite thing as a teacher was seeing my students grow week to week and reflecting on what we accomplished together each year. Now, as an associate principal, I have the privilege of seeing hundreds of students grow week to week, year to year, and see their teachers grow along with them. I am extremely fortunate to be able to lead and guide students and staff, all working toward the common goal of a positive school community.  

6. What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher is someone who puts relationships first and academics second. A great teacher is easy to spot-just look at the students' faces. 

Kelly Siegman

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

 

I am 2019 graduate of Slippery Rock University, holding a Bachelor’s of Science in Secondary English Education, as well as minors in Writing and Literature. I am currently employed at Trinity Area School District, teaching 9th grade English at Trinity High School. 

 

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

 

I will never forget my experiences writing in Dr. O’Connor’s Creative Writing classes. My time in these classes allowed me to reignite my love of writing, that I had so long neglected prior to refreshing those skills. I also met some of my best friends through my program, who I still remain close with today, and for that I am incredibly thankful! 

 

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

 

It’s so hard to choose just one! SRU truly has an excellent faculty of brilliant people who truly care about their students. Dr. Hicks comes to mind as someone who was always there to help his students in a time of need, and provide some great advice for new teachers too. 

 

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

 

I absolutely loved to read and write when I was growing up, and to me, there was no better way to incorporate those two things into one career than to become an English teacher, and help others to discover their own interest in reading and writing. 

 

5. What do you love most about teaching?

 

My favorite part about teaching is seeing the growth in my students from the first day of 9th grade, to the last day. They grow, develop, and change so much throughout the school year, and I am so happy that I can be there to help them through it! 

 

6. What makes a great teacher?

 

A great teacher is someone who fosters an opportunity for growth in their students. Someone who holds them accountable, but also creates an environment where students can overcome and achieve. 

 

 

Victoria Chagnon

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

I graduated from Slippery Rock in the Spring of 2020, with a Bachelor's Degree in Health and Physical Education. I was fortunate to begin my career at South Fayette Township School District, where I am currently in my fourth as a Health and Physical Education Teacher, teaching grades 9-12. 

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

The friendships forged during my college years as a Health and Physical Education major remain my most cherished memories. These friendships were nurtured through a shared passion for fitness, health, and the pursuit of knowledge. Together, we navigated coursework, study/lesson plan writing sessions, and the exhilarating highs of physical challenges and competitions. Our experiences in the gym, on the field, and in the classroom created an unbreakable bond. These friendships were a source of inspiration, laughter, and unwavering encouragement throughout my collegiate journey, and this continues to be the case throughout my career. 

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

Dr. Hannah Holl. Through her guidance, I discovered the profound impact yoga could have on one's life and career. Dr. Holl’s innovative teaching methods made the practice of yoga accessible and relatable. She seamlessly integrated yoga into our curriculum, emphasizing its benefits not just for personal well-being but also for enhancing our future careers as educators. Her dedication to fostering a deep understanding of the practice was infectious, and she encouraged us to embrace yoga not just as a form of exercise but as a way of life. Under Dr. Holl’s guidance, I not only experienced a significant improvement in my physical health but also discovered a newfound sense of calm, focus, and mental clarity. This personal transformation fueled my desire to share the benefits of yoga with others, making me a more effective health and physical education major. Dr. Holl’s impact on my life and career has been indispensable, as she not only introduced me to yoga but also instilled in me a passion for holistic well-being and a desire to inspire others to lead healthier, more balanced lives. 

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

Pursuing a degree in health and physical education was ignited by a deep-seated passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others. What initially piqued my interest in education was the experience I had during my own school years. I was fortunate to have teachers who not only imparted knowledge but also inspired and nurtured personal growth. Their dedication and ability to motivate and guide students left an indelible mark on me. Every teacher, administrator, and coach has a teacher from their own past who helped them forge their own career in education. I fondly remember one who not only taught me the fundamentals of the sport, but also instilled in us the importance of lifelong fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Through his mentorship, I not only became a better athlete but also learned life skills that transcended athletics. This teacher's commitment made me realize the influence that educators can have on their students' lives. These experiences motivated me to pursue a degree in education, specializing in health and physical education. I wanted to be that inspirational figure in the lives of young learners, just as my teachers had been for me. 

5. What do you love most about teaching? 

The kids. I find joy in making a positive impact on the lives of my students. Helping students learn, grow, and succeed academically and personally can be incredibly rewarding. High school is a particularly critical time in a student's life. Children grow and mature so much during the high school years and as teachers, we have the opportunity to help shape the growth, and ultimately the future of our students. This is something in which I hold so much pride and passion. 

6. What makes a great teacher? 

A great teacher embodies a passion for their subject, nurtures a positive classroom environment, and adapts to students' needs. A great teacher communicates effectively, with empathy and patience. Great teachers model integrity, respect, and continuous learning. Ultimately, a great teacher's unwavering commitment to student success, both academically and personally, leaves a lasting impact, empowering students to thrive and become lifelong learners

 

Stephanie Long

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

I graduated from SRU with my B.S. in El Ed in 2003 and my M.Ed. in 2012. I taught third grade at Lake Wylie Elementary in Charlotte N.C. until 2009. Upon returning to the area and getting married, I started graduate school. I was hired to teach at Butler County Community College (BC3) in the fall of 2012. I am now the Program Coordinator for the Early Childhood Education PreK-4 and the Child Development and Family Studies programs. I am also an instructor for our Pass Praxis Teacher Certification Program.

 

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

 

I will never forget receiving a letter from the College of Education stating that I was selected to be part of a brand-new partnership program between the Slippery Rock Area School District and SRU. The program paired ten veteran teachers with ten preservice teachers from SRU. The year-long program developed a unique and collaborative partnership between the district teachers and the preservice teachers. The preservice teachers would rotate through the established classrooms for field and student teaching. It truly helped the preservice teachers gain experience by being in the same school for an entire school year.

 

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

I fondly remember having Dr. Suzanne Rose as a professor during her first few years at SRU. I enjoyed the fresh approach she brought to teaching. Later, Dr. Rose became one of my student teaching supervisors. Dr. Rose always made me feel like I was a born teacher. Her confidence in me and my teaching style helped me overcome any apprehension I had when I was first in the classroom. I attribute a lot of my educational success to Dr. Rose. I fondly remember Dr. Terry Vetere as a professor when I took a Children’s Literature class at SRU. I enjoyed her teaching style and learned a lot when I had her for my undergraduate classes. I never would have imagined I would get to work in a different capacity with her when I became the Program Coordinator for the Early Childhood Education PreK-4 at BC3.  In my role as Program Coordinator, I was asked to collaborate with our local PASSHE schools to establish articulation agreements for our education majors. Not only was Dr. Vetere more than happy to meet with me, but she even remembered me from time as a preservice teacher at SRU. It was her spark and enthusiasm that assisted me in solidifying a pathway for our education majors to easily transfer to SRU after graduation.

 

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

I was raised by two educators. My parents met while attending SRU in the 1970’s. My mom received her degree in Early Childhood Education and spent several decades teaching in preschools and early intervention facilities. My dad received his degree in Secondary Education and taught middle school for almost thirty years. So, I would say that I was born to be an educator. I could not imagine doing anything else. It has always been in my blood. 

5. What do you love most about teaching? 

It is extremely difficult to identify just one reason I love teaching. One of my top reasons why I love teaching is when you get to see the “lightbulb” go off in a student’s head when something clicks. It does not matter if the student is nine years old or nineteen years old; that “lightbulb” reaction is the same and is extremely gratifying as a teacher.

 

6. What makes a great teacher?

Ironically, I asked my first-year students in Introduction to Education this very same question last month. The students always produce the same list. A great teacher meets the students at their level, has patience but also a sense of humor, assesses them in a variety of ways, cares about their students, and wants to make a difference. But to me, a great teacher answers the call. 

 

Trisha Huston

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

I obtained my bachelor's degree in Elementary and Special Education certificates from SRU in 2007; followed by my master's in education from SRU, earning my Special Education Supervision certificate in 2013, and finishing my Doctor of Education degree in Special Education in 2021. I have held positions in K-12 Special Education classrooms including Life Skills Support, Autistic Support, Learning Support, and Instructional Support (IST.) I am currently the Director of Special Education in the Blackhawk School District. 

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

Since obtaining all three degrees at Slippery Rock, I have had several experiences that have made an impact on my life. I've spent over ten years of my [educational career] within SRU in some way. I will never forget the friendships that were built in Rhoads Hall and through playing intramural sports with the Smurfs. 

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

There have been many faculty members that have shaped me into the educator I am today, including the entire Special Education Department professors for allowing me to gain a passion for special education through their teachings; Karen Perry in the ARC for giving me not only a college job, but lifelong friendships; and Dr. Rineer-Hershey for being my supportive dissertation chair and cheerleader throughout the process. 

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

Ever since I can remember, I have wanted to be a teacher. Early elementary was my initial thought. My high school guidance counselor suggested that I go into the dual-major of elementary and special education. After one class in the special education block my freshman year, I was instantly hooked. The field of special education is now my passion and life's work.

5. What do you love most about teaching?

The field of education is constantly evolving and continues to adjust to the needs of children. Most recently, learning more about the Science of Reading has piqued additional interests in helping all children learn to read. As research and data continue to be collected, our practices must change to meet the needs of all learners. 

6. What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher is passionate about their chosen field and is there for the children day in and day out. A great teacher is also able to maneuver the difficulties and stresses of the field with ease by remembering the reason they initially went into the field of education.