La Plata County named one of Durango Elementary School’s educators Teacher of the Year. Kristen McConnell was named teacher of the year last week when her second grade class, along with the super intendant of schools, surprised her Monday morning with the news. “I am so excited and honored to be given this recognition. It’s because of them” McConnell said as she pointed to her students. McConnell says that the most important part of teaching is being a positive and inspiring role model for students. “You only have them for a short time, it is important to give them strategies and skills that they will use to become effective adults” says McConnell. The 30 year old uses small-group activities, technology, and plenty of hands-on activities in her classroom. “Teaching is the most powerful job in the world, we have the opportunity to touch a child’s life and make on impact on them forever” says McConnell. McConnell received her teaching license in New Mexico after several years of classroom experience as an educational assistant. “I just loved being in the classroom so much but I wanted to be able to implement more of my own ideas, which is why I decided to become a teacher. I have always had a passion for learning and teaching and now I am able to show it in the way I teach.” McConnell says she couldn’t be happier in the Durango school system and plans on many more years of successful teaching in Colorado.
Hi Kristen!
ReplyDeleteI like your comment about being a positive and inspiring role model for students. I think that this is one of the most important aspects of teaching. Even though as a teacher, you only spend a short time with each student, your attitude and techniques in the classroom often do impact the students you teach. I think that you will make a wonderful teacher, and I am sure your students will remember you for the encouragement and skills that you provided them in your class.
Hello Kristen,
ReplyDeleteand congratulations on your award. I agree with Lauren that being a good role model is a very important aspect of teaching. I also like your hands-on approach to present material and I look forward to the innovations that you are implementing in your classroom.
Carlos
Kristen: I also agree that being a good role model to your students is an essential part of being a good teacher. I too think that small group activities, technology, and hands-on activities are important strategies to use in the classroom. I greatly commend your love of being in the classroom and know you will be a successful teacher!!!
ReplyDeleteKristen, great interview. you will definitively be a passionate teacher. Being aware of the little amount of time we have with students and imparting the skills they will need in the future will be tough. small groups and hands on activities will help children of different learning styles learn well.
ReplyDelete