Name: Ellie Jurmann

Program: Master of Arts in Teaching, Urban Education Fellow

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics, Brown University

How did your undergraduate and life experiences inspire you to go into teaching and pursue the Combined Baccalaureate/MAT program?

Much of my passion for teaching stems from my undergraduate experiences at Brown and my time living on College Hill in Providence. As a pure mathematics student, I was often one of the few—if not the only—women in my courses. Seeking a sense of belonging, I dedicated myself to fostering community, diversity, and inclusion in mathematics, serving as a teaching assistant for introductory mathematics courses. Through this work, I found a deep love for teaching. 

I felt incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunities, resources, and support needed to earn my mathematics degree and navigate the challenges along the way. That sense of gratitude led me to a clear purpose: to give back to the city that shaped me over my four undergraduate years at Brown. Staying for my Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and committing to teaching in urban Rhode Island schools as an Urban Education Fellow was my way of stepping beyond the "Brown bubble" and getting to know Providence. 

As a MAT student, I have learned the strengths, needs, cultures, and traditions of our city. I have served as a bridge between our communities and the resources, knowledge, and power held by institutions of higher education—working to improve our local public schools and inspire change.

What has been a highlight of your experience in the program so far?

The highlight of my experience has undoubtedly been the people. I am incredibly grateful for my students—their curiosity, resilience, and perspectives inspire me every day, making teaching a truly rewarding experience. My mentor has also been a constant source of joy, inspiration, and support throughout this program. She is an amazing teacher, and I feel so fortunate to learn from her daily.

Lastly, the friendships I’ve built through the MAT program have been invaluable. The kindness, humor, and authenticity of my peers make every challenge more manageable and every success more meaningful. They motivate me on the tough days, and I can’t imagine this journey without them.

Where are you doing your student teaching, and what do you like most about the experience there so far?

I’m currently student teaching at Nathan Bishop Middle School, and it has quickly become a home for me. The math department here is incredibly dedicated, working tirelessly to provide our students with the best education possible. I’m teaching 6th grade math, and it has been such a rewarding experience. My students are bright, energetic, and full of personality—I love the excitement (and a little bit of chaos!) that comes with working in a middle school. Every day brings something new, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

What's your favorite part of the program?

My favorite part of the program is happening right now! Being fully immersed in student teaching—without the added responsibility of graduate classes—has allowed me to give 100% to my student teaching. I can stay after school to prep with my mentor, focus entirely on my students, and truly dedicate myself to the classroom experience. It’s incredibly rewarding and a powerful reminder that, despite the challenges and fast pace of the program, this work is fulfilling and exactly what I want to be doing.

What are you most excited to teach?

I’m most excited to teach middle school math! While my love for math initially drew me to teaching, it’s the social-emotional aspect of the job that truly inspires me. Watching my students grow—not just academically, but as individuals—during these pivotal years is incredibly rewarding. Being able to support and guide them through such a transformative stage in their lives makes this work deeply meaningful.

What are you hoping to do after graduation?

After graduation, I hope to teach 7th-grade math in Providence Public Schools! I’m excited to continue building connections in this community and to create a classroom where students feel supported, challenged, and valued—not just in math, but in every aspect of their growth. My goal is to provide a safe, inclusive space where they can learn, develop confidence, and find a sense of belonging.