At a Glance:
- Received her bachelor’s and master’s degree from the UM School of Education
- Physical education instructor and cross country coach at West Collierville Middle School
- Finds creative ways to integrate technology, like heart rate monitors, into her classroom
Can you tell me more about your career path?
I have always enjoyed learning new things, whether it was in school or on my own. I was fortunate to have teachers and professors who made school interesting, and they instilled in me a love and curiosity for learning. My older sisters are teachers, and I used to visit their classrooms. I loved seeing how they interacted with their students, the relationships they had built with them, and how they were able to reach different types of learners. I knew that education was where I wanted to be. As an education major, I participated in an after-school tutoring program for students in the Oxford area. I found out right away that I loved working with children. Helping them succeed was a very rewarding experience for me. I loved connecting with the students and teaching them what they needed to know in fun and creative ways. Being able to offer them meaningful learning experiences and seeing their “light bulb” moments was rewarding for me.
Can you share a significant experience from your time at Ole Miss?
I would have to say that my time at Ole Miss started long before I was a college student. My dad graduated from Ole Miss and the UM School of Law and successfully raised his four daughters to love Ole Miss as much as he does. My oldest sister enrolled as a student when I was eight years old. From that time on, my family and I would drive up for every home game to tailgate in The Grove, spend the weekend at The Alumni House (now The Inn at Ole Miss), and visit with friends and family. We would also spend time at the Delta Gamma house, which would later become my home-away-from-home. That was where I built lasting friendships that I still treasure today. Ole Miss quickly became my second home, where I had many significant and meaningful experiences that helped make me who I am today.
The School of Education is offering a new degree in health and physical education in August. What advice do you have for students who might decide to pursue a degree and career in health and physical education?
I would encourage them to stay up to date on health and wellness information, be open to new ideas and practices, and be willing to take risks in the classroom, whether it’s through technology or implementing a new teaching strategy. I would tell them to not underestimate the influence they have on their students. I believe that our approach as physical education instructors determines how students will view exercise as children and later as adults. We have the ability to help our students view exercise in a positive way – as a way they can stay healthy, relieve stress, and as a social activity they can enjoy with family and friends throughout their lives.
Can you tell me more about your integration of technology in your physical education classes?
For me, technology has been a valuable tool to help incorporate meaningful lessons into my classroom. While every student in P.E. may not be the fastest, strongest, or the most athletic, I believe every student can succeed if given different avenues. I’ve had students create podcasts, interview athletes, and act as the teacher by creating their own video tutorials for their peers to learn from. We’ve used QR code cubes to facilitate discussions, Polar heart rate monitors to monitor their training, and Infographics for self-assessments for student work. We implemented the Sports Education Model where students took on the role of coach, trainer, announcer, etc. and created “Game Day” video compilations of their unit. One of the most meaningful projects the students did was to create exercise videos with proper stretching techniques and workouts, in fun locations, via green screen. We compiled the videos into a digital book that was installed on all teacher and student devices in our district to encourage healthy lifestyles. Students are creative, and if given the opportunity, they will impress you with the new ideas they come up with!
What have you found most meaningful in your career?
I love when my students or my runners on my cross country team come up to me and say, “I did it!” Whether they have shaved a few seconds off their mile time, are able to do more push-ups today than yesterday, or can now run a mile without having to stop and walk, it’s great when they are proud of themselves and have that feeling of accomplishment. I never get tired of hearing that. I like to help my students set a goal for themselves, work for it, and see them reach their goal.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Ole Miss has always been, and will continue to be, a special place to me. I value the experiences I’ve had, the friendships I’ve made, and the professors from the School of Education who challenged me in my thinking. And finally, Hotty Toddy!