Education students and their ĂŰŃżapp professors undoubtedly share one thing in common: a passion for learning.
“It’s important to enjoy what you do. Happy teachers create productive learning environments where students thrive,” said Dr. Julie Kauffman, Professor and Coordinator of the ĂŰŃżapp Elementary Education Teacher Preparation Program. “I spark my passion with a positive attitude, reflected in my lessons, which positively fuels my students. Seeing their excitement and enthusiasm makes me happy.”
And thrive, they do. “Our EDU students are awesome! They are helpful and inspiring—the kind of person you would want as a friend,” says Kauffman.
A Lifelong Dream Inspiring Others to Learn
Education Student Avery Bellows.
For many, the examples set by their families, teachers, and mentors gave them early insight into their future careers. For one such student, her father paved the way. Student Avery Bellows recalls, “I have wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl! My father is a teacher, so I’d go with him during breaks while he was setting up lesson plans and teaching fake lessons to a fake class using the active boards. My teaching easel was my favorite toy!”
Education student Ashlyn Mueller said, “I have always had a passion for teaching. I want to become a teacher to make a difference in children’s lives. I enjoy watching them grow and succeed as they learn.”
Fellow student Camryn Holman echoes the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. She said, “I have wanted to be a teacher ever since I was in elementary school. Through my internship at Spanish Springs Elementary, I felt inspired by the students I taught during my senior year of high school. Getting to know each student throughout the year felt like such an amazing experience! At the end of my internship, each student gifted me a handwritten letter wishing me luck in my teaching career, and to this day, I still think of them and all they taught me.”
An Exciting Time to Become a Teacher
At ĂŰŃżapp, the Education Teacher Preparation program prepares you to complete your bachelor’s degree by completing your first two years of requirements. With an ongoing teacher shortage in northern Nevada and a growing population, this is the perfect time to consider a career in education.
Education Student Ashlyn Mueller.
“This is a great time to become a teacher!” Kauffman said. “There are many openings, and the salaries/benefits are getting more competitive. There are also many incentives for continuing education and professional development. Most importantly, the teaching community in northern Nevada supports our teachers as they continue to impact our future significantly.”
“We are continuing to add more authentic learning experiences to our curriculum,” explained Kauffman. “We plan and conduct math and literacy centers at elementary schools. We also collaborate with other organizations to host environmental education activities. It is fun and rewarding to know that you have made a difference in students’ lives.”
“Hands-on experiences help students put concepts learned into practice. Field experience also provides excellent networking opportunities,” Kauffman continued. “EDU 201 and EDU 202 students are required to spend 30 hours observing in a classroom. We incorporate authentic learning experiences in EDU 205, EDU 207, and EDU 208.”
What’s the best thing about being a teacher? Holman says, “We can learn from students’ patience, wonder of the world, and much more! I am excited to earn my associate’s degree from ĂŰŃżapp in Elementary Education Teacher Prep in May. The wonderful community at ĂŰŃżapp has supported me on this amazing journey.”
Bellows adds, “I love helping others learn because I believe quality education is a right every person deserves. I have always done well in school and often paired with struggling classmates. Explaining subjects to my classmates came easily, and I got so excited when they would finally get it!”
Kauffman said, “I love spending my days with young kids. We laugh a lot together. I also enjoy helping young students learn, grow, and become self-sufficient.”
Education Student Camryn Holman.
Sharing their Passion with Others
Ever the professor, Kauffman asked each student to provide a favorite educational quote or share their work. With no surprise, they delivered meaningful messages meant to inspire:
Holman: “Teaching is the greatest act of optimism.” – Colleen Wilcox
Mueller: “Education is the key to success in life, and teachers make a lasting impact in the lives of their students.” – Solomon Ortiz
Bellows: “If you are lucky enough to find something that you love, and you have a shot at being good at it, don’t stop, don’t put it down.” – Taylor Swift
“Teaching is not for the meek. If you are energetic, solution-focused, and selfless, we want you to join us in making a difference in the world. Without teachers, we wouldn’t have other professions,” said Kauffman.
For more information about the Education Program, contact the Social Sciences Department.