The Semester in Review

This class has definitely changed my perspective in teaching, especially with the service learning requirement, in addition to the nation-wide teacher strikes and student walk outs. Reflecting on the semester I wish I would turned in more assignments on time. I was accepted into the University of Utah for next semester and I have registered for further teaching pre-requisite courses to be accepted into the College of Urban Education. I have really enjoyed my time at Utah Valley University, and will be leaving with an associates degree. The service learning has also given me a good foundation to start substitute teaching this fall, in addition to continuing my studies full time.

I have loved every minute of service learning in Megan McGinley's fifth grade class at Indian Hills Elementary. I knew from the first day when I overheard three students talking about the mile range of the new Tesla that they possessed interest in the sciences beyond what I was expecting. The last three weeks we've been rigorously preparing for their standardized testing. I am happy to see how far some students have come in their understanding of algebra, and preparing them for middle school. I have considered switching my major to math education, as math and biology teachers are more in demand compared to prospective history teachers. I have already completed a lot of the core history classes for my license, so I'm not sure if I would want to completely overhaul my major.

Following my completion of the the required courses I will be student teaching at a secondary school in the Salt Lake City area in the spring of 2020. I'm considering paying for my tuition through either the Teach Grant or the Terrell H. Bell Teaching Incentive Loan Program. Following graduation I would be required to teach at a specified school serving low-income students for four years. I believe it is these school where I can make the most difference. At the University of Utah I will have opportunities to continue my Spanish with a study abroad program in Cuba, as well as internships in Mexico and the Utah Educators Association, where I can get my first direct experience in administrative policy.