Please tell us a bit about your background in education. How long have you been teaching, and what subjects/grades do you primarily teach?
Like many in this profession, I never had plans to become a teacher! I majored in History with a concentration in Holocaust and Genocide studies in undergrad and obtained a Master's in History with the intention of getting into the legal field. After working as a paralegal for a couple years, I realized I missed being in an academic setting and discussing the subjects I was passionate about, so I enrolled in a teaching certification program. It felt like a risky decision at the time, but it was one of the best choices I ever made. I’ve been at East Providence High School for about 7 years, where I teach African American History, Holocaust and Genocide Studies, and Human Rights.
What do you find most rewarding about mentoring aspiring teachers?
It is really encouraging to see dedicated, passionate, and competent individuals enter this career field. The insight and energy new educators bring can’t be overstated. There is a lot of focus on the current challenges in public education, but having the opportunity to work with future teachers in the MAT program, I know our students (and future students) are in fantastic hands.
How well do you feel the Brown MAT program prepares its students for the realities of the classroom?
What impresses me about Brown’s MAT program is its holistic approach to education and the focus on community, both within the program itself and the schools you teach at. As an MAT, you are not just sent to observe a few lessons and take over a couple classes for a few months. You are really given the time and opportunity to become a member of the school district you are partnered with. By the time you are fully teaching your classes, you have the information and resources you need to be an effective educator, you know the students in front of you, and you understand the specific successes and challenges your district faces.
Are there specific areas where you've seen MAT students grow significantly during their student teaching experience with you?
I’ve had the pleasure of working with two amazing MATs over the past couple years, and the biggest area of growth was confidence. As a new educator, it takes time to find what teaching styles and methods work best for you.
In your opinion, what is the most important piece of advice you could offer to someone considering becoming a teacher today?
To use a teaching expression, have a growth mindset! Some of your first lessons will not go exactly as planned and that is ok and expected. Celebrate the successes, reflect on what could go differently, but don’t let yourself feel dejected or let the things that went wrong stop you from taking risks. Instead, give yourself space to experiment with different activities and methods to see what works for you.