What was your journey to your current position?
I worked in public affairs after college, but it was unsatisfying. I would work on political campaigns for a long period of time, but I wasn’t seeing any kind of change. You’d work on an issue for six months and nothing would happen - even if this was something you truly cared about.
My mother is a teacher and I was always inspired by her work. I wanted to do a job that I thought would be beneficial to the world. With education, you see daily change and it’s measurable. You can actually see the effect that you have in the world, right there in front of you on a daily, hourly, minute-by-minute basis. That’s why I like to be in education, and why I’ve been at Chamberlain for five years.
Why did you choose to teach fourth grade?
I like fourth grade because it’s a really nice transitional age group. For me, it feels like the sweet spot in age; I like that they are mature enough to do things like tying their own shoes, but they’re not completely independent yet.
I also like that this is the time when they really emerge as readers. So, you’re starting to read some really great chapter books - books that will create an impression on you well into adulthood. I’m glad to be a part of the process and transition from learning to read to reading to learn. It’s an important age group to work in and the one that I enjoy the most.
What are some of these books that you find to be especially memorable?
There are more than I can even list at one time, but the books that kids gravitate toward surprise me sometimes. And of course, there are also the ones that you would expect them to like. There’s a great new Track series about runners, by Jason Reynolds, who’s actually a DC native. The kids absolutely adore it. It’s meaningful, realistic fiction that is perfect for their grade level. I’ve also been trying to find nonfiction that is highly engaging by authors that really make events come to life in a unique way and offer meaningful illustrations. We read a book called, “All That Trash” and it’s about this 1987 garbage barge that sparked a recycling movement in the United States. The kids loved it. It was a favorite of the year.
What strategies would you recommend for new ELA teachers that you have found to be especially effective?
Take the time to become a great guided reading teacher. That’s where I make the most impact each year. Of course, a lot of that came from doing my own research and finding the best and most engaging books to teach kids. I would recommend spending time with books and finding the ones you love. I’ve acquired most of our books through a program called “Donors Choose”.
Teaching to small groups can be very impactful during a 20-minute period; you get the most bang for your buck that way.