March 12, 2025
"Believe it or not, as a student, I failed science.
I start my year by telling my students this and reminding them there is always an opportunity to continue to learn. If I could, so can they!
Building a sense of discovery for students comes with moving past the worksheet and the textbook and finding hands-on opportunities to look at the field of science. From bringing in the StarLab, using food to model different cycles and patterns in the earth, listening to the sounds of the weather and seeing organisms up-close, science is learned through discovery and engaging the senses. Auditory, visual and hands-on opportunities create lasting connections to science content.
One thing I love about my job is hearing my now eighth-grade students reflect on different labs we did in sixth grade, wishing they could do it again! I love that middle schoolers have this relentless pursuit of growth.
From the moment I decided to become an educator, I was surrounded by middle schoolers -- as a camp counselor, student intern and even student teaching. I fell in love with this season of life. Middle school wasn't an easy time in my life, as I'm sure many can say. If it wasn't for the trials I faced during those years, and the adults that looked out for me, told me they loved me, and believed in me, I wouldn't be where I am today. My hope and prayer is that I can be a cheerleader, role model, an encouragement to my students. I want to be an adult who looks out for them. Each day I remind students before they walk out of my classroom that I love them, believe in them and encourage them to be kind humans.
I continue to choose middle school because I have hope that this next generation can cultivate a future filled with love, compassion, perseverance and hard work. People may say middle school is hard to teach, but I'd say they are the best years to be a part of!"
- Mary Kate Szymaniak, science teacher at Reed Academy
