Freshly graduated from the University of Central Missouri with a degree in education, Kate Marshall is ready to embark on her teaching career with enthusiasm and a steadfast commitment to making a difference.
Marshall’s inspiration to pursue teaching stems from her innate desire to work with children. “I’ve always had a passion for working with kids and helping them learn and grow,” she mused. “I love seeing their ‘aha’ moments, where they grasp new concepts. Teaching allows me to make a positive impact on young minds and shape their future.”
During her time student teaching under MSTA member Nicole Nowlin in the Lee’s Summit R-7 district, Marshall gained a plethora of knowledge and navigated a variety of real-world experiences.
“One challenge that I faced was managing a classroom of diverse learners with varying needs and abilities,” she recalls. “But I overcame this by creating a supportive and inclusive environment, tailoring instruction to meet individual needs and seeking guidance from my mentor teacher.”
Reflecting on her journey into education, Marshall emphasized the integral role of networking with others. Utilizing the free membership provided to students, she found a sense of belonging in the Student Missouri State Teachers Association.
“Being a member of SMSTA has been amazing,” she remarked. “It has provided me with resources, support and professional development opportunities that have helped me grow as an educator.”
Marshall envisions herself creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment where every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.
“My goal is to make learning exciting and enjoyable for students, to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone and to stand up for what is best in education,” she stated. “As I start my teaching career, my hope is to make a positive impact on every student who walks into my classroom.”
In fact, this is something she has already achieved in Nowlin’s classroom.
“One memorable experience was when I was teaching a math lesson and one of my students, who had been struggling with fractions, suddenly understood the concept after we worked through some problems together using a tape diagram,” she detailed. “Seeing their faces light up with understanding showed me the power of using different teaching strategies to meet each student’s needs.”
During what has been a time of uncertainty for many, new educators like Kate Marshall shine as beacon of hope for the future of education. Her passion for teaching will pave the path for generations to come. Along with this, she plans to advocate for the education system throughout her career, encouraging Missourians to value experts in the teaching profession.
“Society can support future teachers by providing them with more opportunities for hands-on experience in real classroom settings, increasing funding for education programs and recognizing the value of teachers as professionals,” Marshall said.
Her journey into education is not merely a career choice but a calling - one that encompasses her dedication to shaping the minds of tomorrow. With a heart of compassion and a mind brimming with hard-earned knowledge, Marshall is poised to make a profound impact on her community.
This fall, she will serve as a fourth-grade teacher at Underwood Elementary working alongside the peers who encouraged her as a student teacher.