Brittany Kempton

Back to All Elementary Education, Psychology Spotlights

2014

Current job title and employer and briefly describe what it is you do: I am the Reading Specialist and Title 1 teacher at Monroe Consolidated School in Monroe, N.H. For the past 6 years, I have taught 5th, 2nd, and 3rd grade at this school.

Academic experience at Saint Michael's College help prepare you for your career: In so many ways. Not only did I learn how to create lesson plans and units connected to standards and competencies, but I also learned the importance of getting to know each student through student teaching, and playing to each student’s strengths. I gained confidence and assertiveness in my teaching, but also empathy through working with students throughout my 4 years at St. Mike’s.

Favorite memory or class from your time studying at St. Mike’s: I loved my student teaching experience. I taught in a third grade classroom at Champlain Elementary School and worked with Professor Saks Pavese to build my portfolio. It was the most meaningful experience that I had on my journey to become a licensed teacher.

Completed or are completing a graduate program, please provide the name of the degree and institution: Masters in Education, Southern New Hampshire University

Translated your volunteer experience at Saint Michael’s into giving back to your community after graduation: Most of my volunteer experience came through my time on the SMC softball team. We hosted babysitting nights and pitching clinics to local youth. We built relationships and trust with the kids in the area, which is so easily translated into building relationships with students in the classroom. Students are more willing to learn from teachers who want to get to know them as people.

Other information you would like to share or advice for incoming or current students: Have confidence in your abilities– you don’t have to know everything to be a great teacher. And when things are challenging, lean on your professors; they really are the best.