Autobiography
I was born into a military family; moving and shuffling became a part of my identity. I attended three schools across two countries and two states by the time I reached third grade. I tell you this for two reasons; one, my past created my future, and two, it was there in those classrooms that my heart soared at the thought of becoming a teacher myself one day. School was a constant, even if it was a new school; I generally knew what would be expected, and I loved every minute of being there. I spent summers counting down the days and playing school with my sister until we returned. I had an amazing family who loved and supported me; now, as a teacher, I know how rare that is. They gave me a life where the only thing I had to think of was school, and for that, I must say thank you to them, for I know all too well how many children would love to say the same.
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The ever-changing classroom
VIRTUAL 2020-21
There I was, a brand-new shiny teacher beginning their voyage into the unknown world of virtual learning. Admittedly, I spent the year in the basement of my parents' house in our office, looking at this set-up that only MacGyver himself could be proud of. This was exceptionally difficult for me as I traded all my Pinterest classroom dreams for a screen. I could go on about the hardships, but it was not all bad. I grew a lot as an educator. I found empathy inside myself that before I didn't know existed. I fostered relationships with students and parents and friendships with teammates and school staff from a screen. Looking back, I believe that the virtual experience made me a better communicator, helped me bridge gaps with parents, and allowed me to experience insurmountable amounts of gratitude for what was to come. |
IN-PERSON 2021-22
This was my second year of teaching but my first-year in-person classroom. I loved many aspects: soft lighting, groups for collaboration, my carpet for discussions, and my library filled with books I collected long before I moved in. Although, those are all still important features to a classroom. What I loved most were the memories that are not visible to the human eye; the way we greeted each other with a smile, hug, or fist bump. From my previous experience of teaching virtually, I learned that a classroom is a room, but the class makes it a home. |
Quotes
"One of Staci's biggest strengths is in communication and collaboration with parents." - Former Principal, Central Elementary
"One area where Staci rose to the occasion was by creating digital assignments that were engaging and exciting for her students. She became very creative in getting her students to engage, she even would dress up to fit the activity, in order to get her students attention." - Former Principal, Holly Elementary
"Staci has exhibited an amazing rapport with all of her students, especially those who need a little bit more love and support." - Cooperating Student Teacher, Thomson Elementary
"One area where Staci rose to the occasion was by creating digital assignments that were engaging and exciting for her students. She became very creative in getting her students to engage, she even would dress up to fit the activity, in order to get her students attention." - Former Principal, Holly Elementary
"Staci has exhibited an amazing rapport with all of her students, especially those who need a little bit more love and support." - Cooperating Student Teacher, Thomson Elementary