Welcome
This blog is starting as a key part of my Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program, specializing in Secondary Social Studies with an ESOL endorsement. But I’m excited for it to evolve beyond that, into a continuous reflection of my professional growth, a space to share ideas, a platform for connecting with fellow educators, and, yes, even a spot for those sporadic posts when I'm feeling artsy! Join me as I navigate the joys & challenges of becoming a teacher and beyond.
My path to teaching feels like a natural extension of my own experiences. Growing up, school and especially my teachers were foundational for me. They were safe havens where I could explore every curiosity, anchors that provided stability, and crucial launching pads for my biggest dreams. They truly inspired my lifelong love for understanding the world’s history and diverse cultures.
Now, as I work towards becoming a teacher, my goal is to create similar spaces for my future students. I’m eager to return to the community that raised me, particularly to champion and empower first-generation students to achieve their full potential.
When I’m not diving into textbooks or lesson plans, you'll probably find me curled up with a good book, serving our church’s youth alongside my husband, playing Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing: New Horizons, crocheting a new project, or chasing around my baby girl. You could say I have a few too many hobbies, but they keep me curious and connected!
Ultimately, this blog will be a space for me to reflect on my learning, share insights, and connect with fellow educators, learners, and hobbyists alike.
Kiara, it's comforting to learn that school was and is your place of familiarity and comfort ... like home. I often laugh about my middle and high school years because it didn't occur to me that learning was the purpose. I loved the social scene and did some pretty dumb things because my friends and I thought they were funny. Goodness, it's a good thing we grow up. The upside to recalling my younger mindset, is that I know better than to take student behavior personally. I can laugh with them or knowingly coach them toward a more appropriate use of their playfulness.
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate that you are grounded in your community and your commitment to creating safe, empowering spaces for students. Focusing on first-gen learners is something I had not considered, and I am inspired to pursue that as well. It’s a reminder that teaching isn’t just about content—it’s about recognizing who our students are and what they bring with them. Your post made me reflect on how I can be more intentional in supporting all learners, especially those who may not have the same built-in supports.
ReplyDeleteI find so much similarity in your desire to give back to your community that shaped you. I feel a strong pull in my choices and life to do the same thing. It brings me so much joy in the idea that I am able to be an educator in the school system that had created me into the student I am today. I think that it is so important for our students to feel safe and seen in our classrooms, and I have no doubt that you will be able to execute this feeling perfectly for your students!
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