Academics

Educator Profiles

Erin Russell

7th Grade Language Arts Teacher
MS Academics
Olathe, KS

I went to college at Kansas State University, where I majored in Elementary Education and earned my kindergarten through ninth grade teaching certificate. I hold an endorsement to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) in middle school, as well as having completed some coursework toward a Master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. I taught for seven years in Phoenix, grades seven and eight. Most of my experience there was teaching reading, writing, and working with ESL; however, I have also taught science and math. Then I spent five years at a Santa Fe Public School charter school, Turquoise Trail, teaching writing and reading.

I teach because I love kids. I am concerned that our schools are lowering standards instead of holding high expectations for children. I believe that education is important to help a student to become a productive citizen. It bothers me when standards are lowered. We have the responsibility at the mid school level to prepare kids so teachers in high school can build upon that all the way through 12^th grade. Kids will rise to your level and expectation. We can’t lower our expectations by giving our students excuses rather than solutions.

I chose to teach at SFIS as the 7^th grade language arts teacher because I was looking for an opportunity to move from elementary into mid school, where I think my personality fits better. I had been looking for a position the summer before, but couldn’t find a good fit. So, when I heard about the opening in Fall 2012 at SFIS, I was ready. I think parents want the best education for their kids, and that’s why they send them to SFIS. I can provide that. I also like the idea of being able to act as a 3^rd or 4^th parent, especially for those in the dormitory program. I watch out for them and support them as they make decisions. I like that responsibility.

The most important core value, in middle school, is caring. I think this because most of our students live in the dorm, and we are trying to create second family. If we support their caring for each other, then they are more comfortable to learn and experience new things.

The most important thing in my life is kids – my own, my students, what they are doing, and their interests. I have three children of my own, plus two of my boyfriend’s children live with us. So there are five kids in our house, plus I have my students. My hobbies are creating new lesson plans, reading fiction I think the students would like, and supporting all kids at games. Mid school is my favorite age.