“I’ve truly found my calling”
“I honestly could not have asked for a better year. I would have to rate it almost a ten,” says kindergarten teacher Katelyn Fitzpatrick, as she wraps up her first year at Murch. “I have the best class ever and I’ve truly found my calling in kindergarten.” The native of Frederick, MD, now lives on the other side of the Potomac, in Arlington, VA. She transferred after her freshman year at Towson University to the University of South Carolina, where she majored in early childhood education and worked as a waitress, tutor, and golf course grounds keeper.
So, do you swing a mean nine iron?
No, I am an awful golfer and can barely hit the ball! But did enjoy driving around all day on a golf cart and watching the games.
Why did you become a teacher?
Back in high school I left every day at 10:30 and spent the rest of the day in a kindergarten classroom my junior year and a first-grade classroom my senior year. I helped out wherever the teacher needed me, making copies, etc. I eventually started taking small groups and leading small whole group lessons. It was a great experience that really made me realize how much I wanted to be a teacher.
What has been your greatest challenge as a teacher?
I was very surprised by how bright the kids are at Murch. I had to rearrange what I was used to teaching kindergarten students to meet my students’ abilities. Looking back at their portfolios, all of the hard work has definitely paid off. It was amazing to see how far they have come! Seeing the success of your own students is definitely at the top of the list of why teaching is so great.
What is your most memorable classroom moment?
When a child who had just moved into the country was able to read a book to me. His smile made that whole year worth while.
What are some of the methods you use to reach each student?
I teach to a wide variety of learning styles. I incorporate art, music, movement, and all types of tactile experiences in my lessons and school day. Diving in and exploring with our own hands is what makes the best students and creates a life-long love for learning.
After a great year, what are you up to this summer?
I will be volunteering in a children's orphanage in Costa Rica for three weeks. It is a mix of cultural immersion and volunteering. I will also be traveling, taking part in all the cultural activities of the town--San Carlos--as well as teaching English and taking Spanish.
Are you a big traveler?
My parents are so I have been to a lot of places around the US as well as to Italy and Ireland with my family. I plan on backpacking across Asia in the next couple of years with my sister.
Finally, finish this sentence: “If I weren’t a teacher, I’d be a…”
…social worker for children. Or a reading specialist, which I plan on going back to get my masters soon.
-- Donna LaPorte Scharpf
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