Where do you teach? Ponderosa Elementary (Boyd County)
What subject(s) and/or grade(s) do you teach? 3rd grade all subjects/ Digital Learning Coach
How long have you been teaching? 13 years
Why did you become a teacher? I chose to become a teacher because my passion lies in sharing the magic of learning new information. As a kid, learning something new was always so exciting for me and I hope to bring that excitement and wonder to the classroom each year.
What has been the best part of teaching that you didn’t expect when entering the profession? The best part of teaching that I did not expect is how involved you find yourself in the heart of community. You build community in your classroom, with families, with coworkers, and ultimately in your school’s surrounding community. I had no idea as a new teacher how impactful that can be your personal growth and wellbeing.
What is one thing you wish non-teachers knew about what you do? I wish non-teachers knew how much time, content and pedagogical understanding we have to make the decisions that we make. The amount of education and professional research we do behind the scenes to make children’s education flourish often goes unnoticed.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment as a teacher? My greatest accomplishments as a teacher are becoming a Kentucky Achievement Award winner, as an Elementary teacher of the year finalist. Also, all the little moments I get a hug, smile, or conversation with former students. I love seeing former students flourish in their young adult lives.
What is your favorite thing to do when you aren’t teaching? When I am not teaching, you will find me with enjoying time with my two young daughters and soaking up the sun at our favorite beaches!
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? If I could travel anywhere in the world it would have to be Rome, Athens, or anywhere in New Zealand.
What are your social media handles? Twitter: @KatieHale_