The Joy of Teaching

Joythe of Teaching

Education careers are exciting, rewarding, and challenging. Each student is different. Every day holds promise and hope. Teachers are vital to a civilized society and millions of people dedicate their lives to the profession. In the U.S. alone, there are nearly 4 million pre-K-12 teachers and more than 135,000 college professors. The joys of teaching need to be recognized and celebrated. The College of Education asked a few educators teaching different age groups: What drew you to teaching? What keeps you coming back?

Oscar Andrade Lara

Spanish Education teacher, Prairie Winds Middle School

Oscar became a teacher in 2020, beginning as a Spanish language immersion elementary teacher. Now Oscar teaches at the middleschool level.

"I was inspired to become a teacher because I wanted to be that representation and role model for Latinx students, I didn't have a teacher that looked like me until I got to college. One of the things I enjoy most about teaching is seeing students develop a growth mindset and take ownership of their education. It brings joy, even on the tough days, when I see a student wanting to learn more and seeking out that learning for themselves."

Ron Browne

Professor in the Elementary & Literacy Education department (Retired May of 2022)

Ron Browne’s interest in teaching was piqued as a camp counselor. Since then he served as an educator for 41 years.

"I really loved to engage students of all ages, making what they are doing fun, and helping them not be afraid of science."

Katlyn Schnitzler

The Children’s House preschool teacher

During college, Katlyn worked a semester in the preschool classroom at The Children’s House—which led to eight years of teaching.

“I look forward to learning new things from my students, feeding their curiosity, and enhancing their play. Watching a child achieve a goal or master a new skill they have been working on is the most rewarding feeling. But sending them off to kindergarten each fall never gets any easier. Chandler Gooding

Health teacher, Prairie Winds Middle School

Chandler became a teacher in 2019 and has taught 4th, 5th, and 6th grade.

“I love seeing the light bulb turn on in my students’ minds. I love connecting with students and seeing them grow. Although teaching can be tough, trust the process. At the end of the day, teaching is very rewarding.”

Shonita Harper

Third grade teacher at Kennedy Elementary school

Since becoming a teacher in 2016, Shonita has taught second grade, served as a reading interventionist, and is currently a third grade teacher.

“I love the impact I get to make on the children I work with. We get to learn about the world around us together. I have a heart and passion for working with children. I know the relationships I build with my students will last for a lifetime. I still have past students and parents who reach out to me with gratitude and appreciation.