How My Fellowship Changed Me

My internship as a Kenan Fellow has forever changed me. I am a much more confident Kindergarten teacher, because I see the value in the content (and skills) I teach, and the lasting impact it has on my students’ futures.

This confidence comes from a growth mindset; a constant desire to learn, grow, evolve, and be the best version of myself. I am more open to new experiences/challenges, and have taken on new leadership roles within my school and district. I advocate for students, teachers, and the teaching profession by collaborating with others, as a Faculty and Learning Community Advisory Committee member. I am mentoring a student teacher from the University of North Carolina, at Charlotte. I have been asked to present what I am doing in my classroom to my school staff. In addition, I was selected to be a presenter at the CMS Increasing Social and Emotional Supports for Students. My internship helped me realize that I have a voice and I should use it to better the lives of others.

It is the same growth mindset that enables me try new instructional strategies because I recognize that I provide students a solid foundation, from which all learning builds and flourishes. Therefore, I vary the ways in which I deliver instruction from direct, to inquiry-based, to student-centered instruction to prepare students for 21st century careers. I ensure all lessons give students ample opportunities to practice essential skills such as taking turns, speaking and listening, receiving feedback, collaborating, and reflecting.

Prior to my internship, I thought, “I am not a stem person; I don’t know how to do that.” I am still not an expert on STEM. However, I now seek ways to incorporate it into my instruction and bring these types of learning experiences to my school.