New Teacher Feature of the Month⼁Introducing Laura W.
At Pacific Preparatory, we are so lucky to work with the most thoughtful and inspiring instructors, all who bring lessons to life with engaging connections to student interests and their community. This month, we are excited to celebrate Laura, who specializes in fostering a deep understanding of mathematical concepts among her students.
Laura (she/her) graduated with a Master of Arts degree in Educational Psychology from Marist College. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Secondary Education from the State University of New York, College at Oneonta. Laura has taught mathematics for thirteen years from Grade 6 to Precalculus. She enjoys instilling a curiosity about numbers and helping students see how they are interwoven within our daily lives. She has taught in New York and New Hampshire in public and private schools. With Pacific Preparatory, Laura teaches secondary math. When she isn’t teaching, she enjoys spending her free time exploring the mountains and all the activities they encourage.
What brought you to teaching with Pacific Preparatory?
I came to Pacific Preparatory because I wanted to connect with my students in a more meaningful way. Teaching one-on-one enables me to get to know my students and adjust my teaching to best serve them.
What is prepping for your PacPrep students like?
I have been able to look at a lesson, pull out the information that would be tricky for my students, and rearrange the information freely. This independence and trust from the company has been wonderful to experience.
What is your favorite activity to do outside of teaching?
Outside of teaching, I love being out in nature, whether that is hiking, camping, skiing, canoeing, or even just sitting and reading in the snow surrounded by nature.
What's one benefit of the 1:1 teaching model did you not expect to find?
I did not expect such freedom in adjusting the curriculum with 1:1 teaching. Conceptually, it makes sense, but actually working through a session and realizing that I can adjust immediately has been wonderful.
Tell us about a recent small (or big) win you've had with a student.
A recent win with one of my students has been reframing how they self-talk during a session. Instead of saying "I'm so stupid" or "I can't do this," they are changing their vocabulary to "I don't know this yet" and "How do I do this?" While the content is still difficult for them, this shift in mindset makes the sessions less onerous.
Talk about one challenge you've experienced recently and how you've addressed/overcome it.
The biggest challenge I have experienced recently is putting aside the correct amount of time for preparation. Relying on my calendar and scheduling has been key to guaranteeing I have all I need in order before I teach. Just as I encourage my students to stay organized, I also have to work on it!
Laura, we and your students are so lucky to have you on our team! Congratulations on being our New Teacher Feature of the Month!