Creating Spaces for a Collaborative School Experience

In this episode of Creating Spaces, we welcome Kaitlin, a dynamic fourth-grade teacher wrapping up her first full year in the classroom. From the moment she decided to become a teacher during her own elementary days, Kaitlin has been driven by a profound connection with education and her students. She discusses her early inspiration to teach and how those formative experiences have shaped her approach to education.

Kaitlin shares the importance of establishing a bond with her students, emphasizing that feeling loved and belonging are crucial for a positive educational experience. She reflects on how the educational landscape has evolved, particularly highlighting her use of a 'choice board' in her classroom. This innovative tool allows students autonomy over their learning, fostering creativity and agency by offering various activities they can choose from after completing their main assignments.

Moreover, Kaitlin is enthusiastic about the rise of flexible seating and the unique 'personalities' each classroom can have, illustrating how spaces can be tailored to fit the needs and styles of different student-teacher combinations. She offers invaluable advice to first-year teachers, advocating for confidence and the importance of seeking mentorship within the school community.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation with Kaitlin as she shares her unique perspective after her first year of teaching, filled with connection and collaboration.

Kaitlin is a 4th grade teacher who has just completed her first year of full-time teaching, having graduated from college in May 2023. She and her fiancé are planning their wedding this summer. Passionate about education and her students, Kaitlin also enjoys hiking with her dogs, staying active, and relaxing with Netflix during her downtime.

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