May 6th through the 10th marks national teachers week and is a great way to recognize our outstanding teachers in the area. Our teachers strive to extend their passion and skills into their students' education. Consider writing a note or taking the time to thank a teacher for all of their hard work and dedication.
Rachel Nelson is a first grade teacher at East Elementary.
What or who inspired you to become a teacher?
“Mrs. Nix, ( K teacher) Mrs. Elich, (1st teacher) Mr. Dezelske, (3rd teacher) and Mr. Decoster, (6th teacher) wholly inspired me to become a teacher. Most of the credit goes to my third grade teacher, Mr. Dezelske. He taught me that I matter and I am worth it. It was his catch phrase. He would find you in class, on the playground, in the hallway....point to you, look you dead in the eye and very seriously say, "You are worth it!" Wonderful man. Wonderful teacher. I aspire to emanate from him each day.”
What is your favorite part about being a teacher?
“It’s a tie between the relationships I build with my students and families, and the academic growth that happens. Both are equally as rewarding.”
How do you foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment?
“Love, respect, interest, time, boundaries, and routines are equally used to foster inclusion and a positive classroom. Also, celebrations! Those are important too!”
Mitch Drotts is a 7th grade science teacher at Robert J Elkington Middle School
What or who inspired you to become a teacher?
“My parents are the number one reason why I became a teacher. They instilled a sense of values and work ethic which has helped me become the teacher I am today. They also emphasized the importance of education and instilled a love for learning from a young age.”
What is your favorite part about being a teacher?
“My favorite part about being a teacher is when I get to have awesome classroom discussions with my students. Many times these discussions lead into questions which the students have about everyday life things. During these discussions the kids are so engaged and ask honest questions. I absolutely love this! Some of my best and favorite teaching stems from these classroom discussions. “
How do you foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment?
“Fostering a positive and inclusive classroom is an important part of my profession. To help with this I attempt to build a report with all of my students and connect with them on a 1-1 basis. Respecting the individual differences which my students have and providing open communication helps them feel comfortable and valued in my classroom.”
Brielle Carlson is a high school social studies teacher at Grand Rapids High School
What or who inspired you to become a teacher?
“My parents were both teachers and so I grew up around teaching. I had an incredible Social Studies teacher in high school who influenced me to want to know more about the world so that is why I chose my content area. I love continually learning new things and love that I get to share in learning with my students!”
What is your favorite part about being a teacher?
“There is never a dull moment! Life as a teacher is different minute to minute and never is predictable. I also love being with teenagers; they keep me young and I am constantly learning from them! I also love taking students on international trips and seeing the world through their newly-discovered sense of wonder as young adults.”
How do you foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment?
“I see all students as humans capable of success with the ability to analyze and problem solve if given the chance. I think when students feel pushed and encouraged they surprise themselves with what they can understand and accomplish.”
Todd Peart is a 3rd grade teacher at East Elementary. Mr. Peart says that his parents were the ones who inspired him to become a teacher. He expresses that his favorite part about teaching Seeing how each student has their own unique strengths.
How do you foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment?
“Each student knows that I value their input. Learning to feel confident to try, even if you are not always right, is o.k. Believe in yourself!”
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