Create New Experiences To Help Empower Philadelphia Children
Kimmell Proctor is an experienced educator with a master's in teaching from the University of Virginia. In 2009, Proctor began working the Delaware Children's Museum education department. There, she helped launch STEAM-based (Science Tech Engineering Art Math) museum that opened in 2010. The experience enlightened her passion for health science education; this lead Proctor to getting her board certification in integrative nutrition. She then opened her own business, Good Eats Teach.
What is the most challenging aspect of teaching in the classroom environment?
"I've worked in pre-k through middle school classrooms, and' while each age group has its own unique developmental challenges, I think that the overall challenge as a teacher is the same: to meet the needs of a variety of different learners. Successful teaching is rarely one size fits all. Strategies that work for one student may not work for another, so being able to individualize instruction in a group setting is always a demanding challenge."
Are continuing education courses beneficial for teachers?
"Absolutely! Education is ever-changing and improving. Most schools have embraced 21st-century learning skills and the use of assistive technology. Learning how to effectively integrate these new platforms and resources into existing curriculum can definitely enhance teaching skills and provide teachers with engaging new tools for our proverbial toolbox."
Do you feel a Master's education would be helpful in your day-to-day career?
"I chose a combined degree program so that I started earning my master's in teaching while I was still finishing my last year of college at the University of Virginia. This was helpful because, even as a brand new teacher, I had already gained a large amount of practical experience through my thesis work and was earning several thousands of dollars more than the new hires who did not have advanced degrees."
Do you have any advice for people wanting to enter the teaching profession?
"Teaching is an adventure. It takes extreme energy, patience, humor, creativity, dedication, and organization. The real payoff for me is the opportunity to create new experiences everyday that inspire and empower children to make a difference in their own lives."
Christina Thompson is a freelance writer living in Philadelphia. She reports on various topics such as: Social Media, Local Events, Entertainment, Food and Drink and more. Her work can be found at http://firstsendmedia.com/