By Dr. Cher Gauweiler

Nancy Davenport enjoys the kid connections she has made at Calusa Elementary in Pasco County. I had the privilege of interviewing a former student who graduated from the College of Education in May 2013 with an Exceptional Student Education degree.  Now, in her fifth year of teaching, Nancy is currently a kindergarten teacher.   For the 2017-2018 school year, she was a nominee for Teacher of the Year.

I asked her “Five Questions” about teaching:

What do you enjoy most about your current position?

By far, I enjoy the relationships that I am making with the kids.  I really try and connect with each student on a personal level to find what works.  I have learned how to provide differentiated attention for students who need that from me.  For instance, we have “lunch bunch” on Fridays where I can spend time with children informally.  I have a student with behavioral issues, but I have learned what makes him laugh.  I may hold a paper a little longer than necessary and then let him have it.  These moments make teaching fun.

What have you learned in the COE that has helped most in your career?

I appreciate the value of class time and how every moment counts.  It is amazing what I can teach in even two to five minutes!  I have learned the value of teamwork and being part of a learning community.  At my school, I cannot do it alone and just shut my door.

What has been the biggest challenge?

It is difficult when you have students who move alot within the school year.  There are different reasons for student mobility, and you can’t blame children for not coming to school. It is hard for them as they may not have the feeling of security that they will stay at our school and be able to make friends.  Last year I had 18 students in my class.  This year only half of them still go to Calusa.

What do enjoy about working at Calusa?

The administration is very committed to supporting teachers and our ideas.  I have a great kindergarten team and we work well together.

What would you say to someone who is considering teaching as a profession?

Make sure that your heart is in this career for the right reason.  The children know if you are not fully committed to what you are doing.

Nancy has discovered that teaching is right for her.  She also knows that connecting with students is what makes that “bond” so special.   For more information about a degree in teaching contact Pat Roper  at roper.pat@spcollege.edu or check out our website.