Third Grade Teacher

My decision to become an educator was influenced by my past experiences and a desire to make a difference in young lives. Like most children that live in an urban area, I faced many challenges from living in an overcrowded home to moving frequently from place to place because my grandparents could not afford to provide for myself, my siblings and their children. These challenges did not stop there, we were neglected from love, necessities, and our education was not made a priority. Part of me would like to blame them, but in hindsight, I realize they did the best they could with the little they had.
Although my childhood seemed tough there were amazing people that helped along the way. I went to several elementary schools and one thing they all had in common was an educator willing to help. Many noticed we were in a tough situation. When we needed food, my family was directed to the school’s counselor for resources. When I needed love many teachers were there to give me a hug and provide comfort. When I struggled in class many teachers dedicated their own time to make sure I succeeded. I remember each of their names because of the profound impact they had on my life. Their love and dedication made me want to become “the teacher”. “The teacher” that challenges you academically, “the teacher” that empowers students, and “the teacher” that is there to talk to and empower others to show up as their best self.

As an educator, I believe that my role as a teacher goes far beyond the classroom and the requirements imposed by the position. I believe that being a great teacher requires you to foster a genuine connection with students that increases students’ and teacher rapport, preparing the students for a world that at times can be challenging, and igniting a love of learning. In my classroom, I make it a priority to ensure that I know my students and their families. This is done through a host of activities throughout the school year such as all about me posters or a get to know you activity and having daily conversations with parents or caretakers both in person and through educational platforms. Parents are invited into my classroom on a yearly basis to speak with me regarding their child’s academic progress, but also, to observe their child’s learning. In addition, with the curriculum and learning materials used I create an environment where my students can ask questions and conduct research through a variety of topics to increase their curiosity of learning. Allowing this process to naturally occur in the classroom allows us to learn together and hear their stance on their inquiry and passion.

School Counselor

Many factors have influenced me to become a school counselor. After being an educator for over ten years, I decided to become a school counselor in order to help a greater population within the school community. As an educator, I saw what an impact outside issues could have on a child’s academic success. I realized that in order for a child to succeed academically, his social and emotional well-being all played a huge part. I have a deep desire to help students navigate challenges, whether they are academic, social, or emotional. Being a school counselor allows me to ensure that every student receives the emotional and academic support he or she needs in order to succeed in all aspects of life. My goal is to make a meaningful difference and create a lasting impact in all students’ lives. Seeing students grow academically, socially, and emotionally has brought great meaning and joy to my career.

School counselors play a key role in supporting students' academic, emotional, social, and career development, while also ensuring a safe and supportive school environment. Counselors help monitor students’ academic progress and work with teachers to create interventions, when needed. Counselors also provide individual and group counseling to students who are dealing with a variety of issues such as anxiety, stress, family difficulties, and emotional regulation. Counselors also provide crisis intervention and collaborate with parents, staff, and outside resources to ensure students have the support they need during emergency situations. Another job responsibility is to organize and lead parent/ teacher conferences to discuss students’ strengths and weaknesses. Teachers, parents, and counselors work together to create interventions to help students succeed. I take pride in being empathetic to the struggles that my students endure. Students can open up to me easily and know they are in a safe space with me.