Undergraduate

Meet Kendall Goldenson, a senior in elementary education ready to make an impact in the classroom and beyond

Maddie Rudolph — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 17:30:07 +0000

Meet Kendall Goldenson, a senior in elementary education ready to make an impact in the classroom and beyond Maddie Rudolph Wed, 02/19/2025 - 10:30

Maddie Rudolph

Meet Kendall Goldenson, a ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� senior who is paving her way toward a meaningful career in teaching, and eventually, educational policy.

Through her educational journey, she’s discovered that impact isn’t just about what happens now, but also how it shapes the future.

“I’ve always wanted to make an impact on the world, and I’ve always felt like working with children is the best way to do that,” says Goldenson.

For her, the dream isn’t just about being an educator but creating environments where every student, from all backgrounds, can thrive.
At ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, Goldenson's experiences have only deepened her passion for education.

“I love the School of Education’s mission and vision,” she said. “When I visited, the dean personally gave my family a tour. That personal touch really stood out to me.”

Opportunities to lead and learn

Since enrolling, she has embraced leadership opportunities, including the School of Education Student Government and supporting its initiatives and contributing to policy discussions that amplify student voices.

Goldenson aspirations extend beyond the classroom, with interests ranging from curriculum development to ensuring inclusive practices for English language learners and students with disabilities; she’s determined to make systemic changes.

“Schools should be supportive environments where every child meets their goal,” she said. “I don’t ever want a child to feel like they’ve been failed.”

When asked about her future, Goldenson lit up with enthusiasm, crediting Ruth Bader Ginsburg as an inspiration: “I watched a film about her and it changed my life,” she explained. “I want to be that woman who walks into a room and commands respect, all while being 4’11.”

She shares at least a couple of traits with the Supreme Court icon and one of her role models: a small stature combined with a big passion for standing up for her values and the voices of others. This resolve has contributed to her dreams of combining education and policy.

Prioritizing joy

Despite her busy schedule of centering coursework, student teaching, Student Government leadership responsibilities as a co-president, and more, Goldenson emphasizes the importance of balance. Whether it’s exploring coffee shops, attending concerts, or indulging in her love for baking, she finds time to connect with life beyond academics.

“I could see why people might think school is my whole life, but it’s about finding joy in the little things,” she said.

Her energy is contagious, a reminder that educators are individuals with passions that fuel their drive.

Looking forward to the future

As her undergraduate journey comes to a close with graduation approaching this semester, she’s ready to take the next step. With plans to first teach elementary school before transitioning into policy work, she’s committed to making schools inclusive, supportive environments for all.

“Education is about showing children they’re loved and supported,” she concluded. “It’s about being that person who believes in them when they need it most. That’s the kind of teacher I want to be.”

Goldenson’s story is a reminder that the most profound change often starts small: in classrooms with students who feel valued and with educators who dream big.

Meet Kendall Goldenson, a ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� senior who is paving her way toward a meaningful career in teaching, and eventually, educational policy.

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Soon-to-be social studies teacher Emma Hoeschler is ready to empower her students

Anonymous — Fri, 03 May 2024 17:04:33 +0000

Soon-to-be social studies teacher Emma Hoeschler is ready to empower her students Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 05/03/2024 - 11:04

From heliest memories, Emma Hoeschler knew she wanted to be a teacher.

“I've always been passionate about working with children, but it took me quite a while to decide what type of teacher I wanted to be,” she said.

Hoeschler's teaching focus only began to manifest itself after a pivotal U.S. government class in her senior year provided her with a firsthand experience of the connection that can exist between classroom content and her personal life.

“I was able to see the potential for social studies education to empower students to become leaders and changemakers in their communities,” she said.

Fulfilling her dreams of becoming an active changemaker in her community, Hoeschler was a founding member of the School of Education Student Government, creating learning opportunities in the School of Education community for students, staff and faculty.

Nominated to be the 2024 Outstanding Secondary Humanities Undergraduate Teacher Licensure Program Graduate, Hoeschler has gained much admiration from her mentors.

“She embodies the role of teacher leader,” said her nominators, Professor Wendy Glenn and PhD Candidate Chelsea Kent. “Emma centers equity and justice in her teaching, inviting students to examine how power and privilege have shaped and continue to shape our global society.”

Poised and ready to start her teaching career, Hoeschler will soon be teaching 7th and 8th grade social studies at Explore K-8 in Thornton, Colorado.

“I am excited to be taking on a classroom of my own and have the privilege to work with a new group of students,” she said “I cannot wait to see what the next chapter holds.”

In her own words

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I'm originally from Denver, Colorado. I've known since before I can remember that I wanted to be a teacher. I've always been passionate about working with children, but it took me quite a while to decide what type of teacher I wanted to be. In my senior year U.S. government class, my teacher tasked my class with finding a problem in our community and proposing a solution for it through the structures of local government. This lesson allowed me to experience firsthand the connection between my personal life and classroom content. I was able to see the potential for social studies education to empower students to become leaders and changemakers in their communities. All of my decisions following this experience have been made to fulfill my end goal of becoming a secondary social studies teacher. I chose to attend ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��'s Teaching Licensure program due to its focus on bridging the gap between school settings and local communities. When students are able to bring their experiences and passions in the classroom space, learning inherently becomes more student-driven and impactful. The past four years have enabled me to experience a variety of social studies classroom settings throughout Boulder and have solidified my love of teaching. I am currently finishing my student teaching experience at Casey Middle School in Boulder, Colorado, and I cannot wait to see what the next chapter holds."

What is one of the most significant lessons from your time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� that you’ll carry with you into the next chapter of your life?

One of the most significant lessons from my time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� that I will carry with me into the next chapter of my life is that good things take time. Especially throughout college, it's easy to feel rushed and forced to move quickly to finish everything you can. I've learned that it's important to be intentional with my time and that it's okay to spend extra time to produce high quality work. It's hard not to compare yourself to others, but college is the best time to forge your own path and find what works for you. College is full of setbacks and achievements, so recognizing that each step of your journey will take however much time as it takes will give you the peace of mind and persistence to keep moving forward."

What does graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� represent for you or your family/community?

Graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� represents a long-held dream of becoming an active changemaker in my community. While I knew that I wanted to be a teacher for years before my senior year of high school, it was difficult for me to find a university setting that upheld my core values. The ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� School of Education is different from any other secondary licensure program that I have come across. In this program, we go far beyond simply learning how to teach. CU teachers are poised to become real agents for progress in their schools, communities and the education system as a whole. The skills and knowledge that I have developed throughout my time at CU have prepared me to be a teacher who empowers her students to think critically about our world and work to advance our communities for the better."

What is your best piece of advice for incoming students?

Take time for yourself! Teachers are individuals who give everything they have for their students and their communities, but it's important to recognize that we can't bring our best selves to the table if we're not taking care of ourselves. Learning to balance work life and home life starts in college and developing the skills to draw boundaries is vital. I know I'm biased, but I argue that teaching is one of the most important roles that you can fill for your community. We need teachers who know how to intentionally take time for themselves so they can continue to love to show up for their students for years to come."

What are your next steps after graduation?

This fall, I have accepted a Social Studies Teaching position in Thornton, Colorado. I will be teaching 7th and 8th grade social studies at Explore PK-8. I am excited to be taking on a classroom of my own and have the privilege to work with a new group of students!"

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Diving into new opportunities | Samantha Lane, Outstanding Leadership and Community Engagement Graduate

Anonymous — Wed, 01 May 2024 19:19:31 +0000

Diving into new opportunities | Samantha Lane, Outstanding Leadership and Community Engagement Graduate Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 05/01/2024 - 13:19

Always with an open mind, ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� graduate Samantha Lane dives into new opportunities and challenges in her life however unexpected they may be.

Lane decided to major in Leadership and Community Engagement as she was interested in the community-based, hands-on experiences that the major offered, as well as making a difference in educational spaces.

Her time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, however, started unexpectedly and with challenges during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Yearning to make connections, she found and joined numerous new programs: as a coach for K-12 students in Public Achievement–a youth led civic engagement that promotes student voice and transformative change–, as a member of the Phi Sigma Pi National Honors Fraternity, as a Learning Assistant for a class she surprisingly loved–Weather and the Atmosphere–, and much more.

“When I started CU during the pandemic, my experience was anything but what I had expected it to be,” said Lane. “As I begin the next chapter of my life, I will do my best to remember that it's OK if not everything turns out perfectly or how I would expect it to, as there is a lot of beauty among the imperfect and unexpected if you look for it.”

Lane is a 2024 Outstanding Graduate, and her peers in her major describe her as “always the first to volunteer at any leadership opportunity within her group.”

“She doesn’t leave anyone behind and is always so thoughtful about the impact she has on others,” they said.

In her own words

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I am a Boulder native and have lived in Boulder my entire life (I graduated from Fairview High School). I love Boulder as I love doing outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and skiing, and Boulder is a great place for that! I decided to major in Leadership and Community Engagement because I was interested in making a difference in our education system without going into teaching, and I felt that the Leadership major would be a great way for me to learn more about the education system. I was also really drawn to the major due to the community-based, hands-on experiences that it offers. For example, through the major I have gotten to work with youth outside of traditional classroom settings in many ways, such as through afterschool programs, alternative classes and community organizations. It is through these experiences that I have been able to figure out that I want to have a career working with youth in alternative settings to school.”

What is one of the most significant lessons from your time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� that you’ll carry with you into the next chapter?

One of the most significant lessons I have learned from CU is that the most wonderful experiences and opportunities often arise in the least expected ways, so it is important to have an open mind, as you never know what amazing opportunities you'll find when you do. Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to go to college, and I always loved to picture what my college life would look like. In fact, in high school, I even picked out many of the student organizations and programs I hoped to join when I got here. However, when I started CU during the pandemic (Fall 2020), my experience was anything but what I had expected it to be. However, I persevered, and in an attempt to meet new people during a year that seemed determined to keep me isolated from others so I wouldn't get sick, I decided to join some organizations I hadn't heard of before college, such as Public Achievement and Phi Sigma Pi National Honors Fraternity. In both of these organizations, I tried my best to be open minded and friendly, which helped these to become two of my favorite communities at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, and I made some of my closest friends through these. Another example is my first year I randomly decided to take ATOC 1050 Weather and the Atmosphere to get a natural science credit out of the way, and I ended up loving the class so much I became a Learning Assistant for it for two semesters. Even though it was a very different subject than what I was majoring in, I ended up having a lot of fun and learning a lot of new facts and skills I wasn't even expecting to learn when I first started college! As I begin the next chapter of my life, I will do my best to remember that it's ok if not everything turns out perfectly or how I would expect it to, as there is a lot of beauty among the imperfect and unexpected if you look for it.”

What does graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� represent for you and/or your community?

For me, graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� represents strength and resilience. Especially due to starting college during a pandemic, like for everyone in my year.There were a lot of challenges thrown my way. Graduating represents that I, along with my entire graduating class, overcame these challenges, and as such, I give huge kudos to the strength and resilience that everyone in my graduating class has been able to show to get to this point!”

What is your best piece of advice for incoming students?

My best piece of advice for incoming students is that it's OK if not everything turns out perfectly and if college feels really hard at times. Going into college, I always heard about the fun times that various adults around me had had in college and had heard from others that "college was the best time of their life." When I got to college though, I learned that while there are so many fun parts to college, there are also a lot of parts that are really hard, and sometimes people don't tell you about these parts before you begin your journey. People will talk about the lifelong friends that they made in college (which I did make several lifelong friends through college), but people don't always tell you how stressful it is to manage your classes and a job and your social life all at the same time. So I want to be the one to tell you, your experience is not going to be perfect. It's going to have a lot of ups and downs and sometimes you're going to experience a rollercoaster of emotions. There will be moments where you're going to feel lost and confused. And that's OK! That's normal! Everyone else around you has or will also experience challenges in college too! When you feel overwhelmed or stressed or any other emotion, feel it fully, as these emotions are valid and part of the college experience. It is through these experiences and emotions where you will grow the most. There is so much beauty in the imperfect and unexpected, so you have to have imperfect moments to find this beauty! It is in the moments where life is really hard where you will learn you have a strength that you didn't know you had! It is when you make it through the hardest times when you will feel the most accomplished! So embrace the chaos that is college, and know that every experience and every emotion, whether good or bad, is valid and brings beauty and strength.”

What are your next steps after graduation?

After graduation, I am moving to San Diego. I will be spending the summer working as a unit leader at the Jewish Community Center summer camp, and I hope to find a career doing program management for either camp or afterschool programs (or for another program focusing on youth learning in alternative spaces).”

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Meet Shay Adamo, a math teacher spreading kindness and creativity

Anonymous — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 04:09:51 +0000

Meet Shay Adamo, a math teacher spreading kindness and creativity Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 04/27/2023 - 22:09

Shay Adamo is following in the footsteps of a family full of educators and ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� alumni as he looks forward to becoming a math teacher who helps his students unleash their creativity and kindness.

Adamo has developed into an excellent educator through the disposition he brings to learning about the practice of teaching and his sincerity towards meeting the needs of students, and he has been selected at the 2023 outstanding graduate for the CU Teach program in the School of Education. Adamo has demonstrated a remarkable attitude towards learning about and implementing effective educational practices and strategies in his work, often going above and beyond to leverage and apply new ideas and approaches within math education, his faculty nominators noted.

Additionally, Adamo has shown a genuine interest in understanding the needs of his students and then striving to ensure they have the supports they need to be successful. His disposition and experience with be a valuable asset to his school, students, and community, as he is committed to continuously learn, improve his practice, and find inspiration in his students.

“My passion for teaching is to help students unlock their strengths and spread the kindness that I know they all have,” he said. “I am inspired by them and want to work hard so that they can continue to inspire others like they do me.”

In his own words

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I grew up in a rural village just outside of Steamboat Springs. For me I was inspired to go to ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� by my own teachers in Steamboat who expressed their love for the ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� education program in an indescribable way. It made CU an easy choice for me. :)"

What is one of the lessons from your time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� that you’ll carry with you into the next chapter?

The ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� education program gave me SO many opportunities to be in the classroom and meet different teachers. Through the step program I got to see all grade levels and gained more of and understanding about the ages I wanted to work with. And in the latter programs I got to experience so many different teaching styles first hand so that I could figure out what I wanted to do when I got my own classroom.”

What does graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� represent for you and/or your community?

I come from family full of educators, and graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� means that I can do what my grandma, aunts and uncles did before me. I feel so proud to be able to make a positive impact on the future generations of this world, just like they did.”

What is your best piece of advice for incoming students?

This can be a new beginning, try new experiences and put your heart into that which you love! The more you put in to your classes, clubs and adventures, the more impactful they will be on your future self. Cherish each memory and show kindness through it all.”

What continues to drive your passion for your work after graduation?

I became a teacher because I was inspired by the creativity, ingenuity and kindness that all children have within them. My passion for teaching is to help students unlock their strengths and spread the kindness that I know they all have. I am inspired by them and want to work hard so that they can continue to inspire others like they do me.”

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From soccer coach to elementary teacher and advocate, meet Marley Horn

Anonymous — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 04:50:32 +0000

From soccer coach to elementary teacher and advocate, meet Marley Horn Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 04/26/2023 - 22:50

Marley Horn’s love of coaching soccer was her first foray into working with children, but it was her work in a bilingual elementary classroom that sealed her fate and love for teaching.

Horn grew up in Fort Collins, playing and coaching soccer from an early age. She was coaching soccer as an undergraduate at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� when she decided to change her major to Elementary Education program with an Endorsement in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education in the School of Education. Now she is one of two outstanding graduates for the program.

Horn described her student teaching placement in a bilingual first grade classroom in Denver as one of the greatest experiences in her time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��. That experience has helped her secure a teaching position at Ellis Elementary School in Denver Public Schools next year.

“Every single one of my students has helped me to become not only a better teacher but a better person,” Horn said. “They will always hold a special place in my heart and everything that they, and my amazing Mentor Teacher, Megan Westmore, have taught me this year I will carry with me into the next chapters of my life.”

Horn exemplifies the power of advocacy for bilingual learners and communities. She is a vocal advocate for bilingual children recognizing and building on the cultural and linguistic resources that children bring to school.

“Marley is also an astutely critical educator who sees and challenges racism and systems of oppression in schools and society through her work as a teacher,” her nominators said. “She stands out for her preparedness and initiative as a beginning teacher and for her accountability to the community where she teaches

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Meet Cora Emslie, an outstanding graduate who says creating community is key

Anonymous — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 21:28:15 +0000

Meet Cora Emslie, an outstanding graduate who says creating community is key Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 04/25/2023 - 15:28

Community is everything to Cora Emslie, the School of Education’s outstanding undergraduate student. Emslie grew up in Fort Collins, and she enrolled in ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� specifically for the School of Education’s unique Leadership and Community Engagement major, one of the only degree programs of its kind nationwide that prepares ethical and culturally aware leaders who collaborate with community partners to tackle society’s big challenges.

Emslie’s peers and instructors in the program selected her for the outstanding graduate honors because of her passion for justice, empathy, reliability and enthusiasm. She has been an outstanding leader through her participation in the programs and the Public Achievement program, a civic engagement program that promotes student voice and transformative change through youth-led community activism projects.

Her youth partners in Public Achievement have taught Emslie so much about leadership and activism. She worked with a team of eighth graders who chose to focus on domestic violence this year—a project that has never been of focus in the ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Public Achievement (PA) program. Students wanted to bring awareness to domestic violence, and they also found it important to openly discussed the topic at any age so people don't feel alone if they or people that they love experience it. Additionally, Emslie worked with high schoolers, who chose to focus on immigrant rights and voting rights for undocumented immigrants in Lafayette, another novel topic for the PA program. Emslie found the students deeply care about expanding voting rights as they see the power that comes from being able to vote and voice their opinion in the local and the federal government.

"Working with the students in PA has taught me so much about radical and revolutionary love," she said. "Each week my students teach me how important community is and how much of an impact we can truly make in our communities. If it wasn’t for PA and all the lovely people that I have met through it, I would not be who I am today."

Emslie’s dedication and commitment to social justice is exemplified by her exceptional record of impact. Her peers and faculty noted that she is one of the most hardworking people in the major. Her contributions embody the ethos and values of the major to “nourish and honor the leadership and dignity of those around her such as her peers and the young people she works with.” This work is often behind the scenes: to listen, ask critical questions, connect with others, ensure all voices are heard, and take on often unglamorous tasks.

One student stated, “Cora embodies patience and wisdom. She has helped me expand my thinking and understanding of the world. Being a witness to her leadership has taught me the value in showing up authentically. I wouldn't be who I am without our friendship because she radiates love, passion, and integrity.”

In her own words

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I grew up in Fort Collins, CO and learned about the leadership program at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� on my tour of the campus. I immediately was interested after hearing about it and applied to be part of the program at CU. I chose CU for the leadership program and because it was still in state so I would still be close to my family. "

What is one of the lessons from your time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� that you’ll carry with you into the next chapter?

The greatest lesson that I’ve learned while here is how valuable and impactful a strong community can be. Throughout my time in college I have been a part of many communities through classes, friend groups and programs that i have worked with. The community that I have found through these programs and the relationships I have fostered because of them have shown me how important finding your own community in college is.”

What does graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� represent for you and/or your community?

Graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� represents coming to the next phase in my life. While I don’t know exactly what’s in store, I’m excited to see what comes next!”

What is your best piece of advice for incoming students?

My best piece of advice is to try a lot of new and different things! Being adventurous and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone in many different ways is what college is all about and how you’ll find out what your passions and interests are.”

What continues to drive your passion for your work after graduation?

What drives me is community. I have found that the relationships in the communities that I am a part of drive me to show up and do the work that I am passionate about.”

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Meet Amalia Kamlet, an adventure-seeking science educator

Anonymous — Wed, 04 May 2022 17:02:16 +0000

Meet Amalia Kamlet, an adventure-seeking science educator Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 05/04/2022 - 11:02

Amalia Kamlet has always had a heart for adventure and science. Her adventures in teaching and in the outdoors as a student at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� are only the beginning as her love for adventure literally takes her around the world, starting with an opportunity as a STEM science teacher in Israel this fall.

Kamlet is an enthusiastic educator whose passion for teaching and science are unparalleled, leading to her selection as the 2022 Outstanding CU Teach Undergraduate Teacher Licensure Program Graduate.

She joined CU Teach with a mission to help middle school students explore their curiosity about the world through scientific inquiry and a STEM focus. She realized, through her experiences at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� that stereotypes played a large role in who was seen and saw themselves as a science learner. As an environmental science major, Kamlet recognizes the importance of a science identity for minoritized youth in order to grapple with today's environmental concerns.

I am so excited to give back to the community that educated me and continue to change the way students see themselves and their work."

Kamlet has strived, throughout her years studying to be an educator, to learn all she could from the people with whom she worked. Mentor teachers, university faculty, and fellow students would all say that they have benefitted from their experiences working with her, her CU Teach faculty nominators contend.

Her passion and compassion for working with all youth are also apparent in the classroom, and beyond. Kamlet has a contagious sense of humor, which she shares with students as she builds an affirming learning community that is committed to amplifying student voices advocating for their learning. Through her hard work and determination, she has many opportunities and paths from which to choose as she moves past graduation from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, and the CU Teach faculty are proud to welcome her as our colleague in the field of science education, celebrate the exceptional work she has contributed thus far to the profession of teaching, and follow along on her next adventures in Israel and beyond.

In her own words

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I was lucky enough to have an enriched education with dedicated and motivated teachers who supported me and my journey. I am so lucky and honored to be providing this to my future students.”

What is one of the lessons from your time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� that you’ll carry with you into the next chapter?

��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� and specifically the school of education gave me my best friend. She motivates, challenges, and accepts. She makes me a better teacher everyday.”

What does graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� represent for you and/or your community?

I am so excited to give back to the community that educated me and continue to change the way students see themselves and their work.”

What is your best piece of advice for incoming students?

Best advise I can give incoming students is to be open and adventurous to friends and educational experiences.”

What continues to drive your passion for your work after graduation?

My friends and family have continues my drive to work hard and my future students challenge me to design and create engaging curriculum.”

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Meet Cynthia Corral Robles, a leader in empathy, reliability, and enthusiasm and a passion for justice

Anonymous — Tue, 03 May 2022 05:16:29 +0000

Meet Cynthia Corral Robles, a leader in empathy, reliability, and enthusiasm and a passion for justice Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 05/02/2022 - 23:16

Cynthia Corral Robles considers herself “lucky enough” to have stumbled across the Leadership and Community Engagement major in the School of Education.

She first discovered the INVST Community Studies program and its summer justice tour of Colorado, which unleashed her passion for community leadership. She traveled the state of Colorado and listened to community stakeholders’ various perspectives with an open mind and with a group of other empassioned students who became her close friends.

In addition to her work with INVST Community Studies, Corral Robles has participated in the leadership and community engagement major, Public Achievement, and a two year-long research project with Aquetza — all programs based the in the School of Education’s CU Engage: the Center for Community-based Learning and Research — plus her leadership connected with her ethnic studies major, education minor, and sorority.

My passions for working with youth stem from my own schooling experience and the desire to make it better for others...Witnessing how some people have to fight for the right to be heard and experiencing it firsthand is what drives my passion to become a teacher. Whatever happens after teaching, I will continue to advocate for youth as I know that everyone needs the space to begin to create a world they are proud to be a part of."

Her dedication and commitment to social justice is exemplified by her exceptional record of impact. Corral Robles was chosen by her Leadership and Community Engagement peers and instructors as the 2022 Outstanding Graduate in Leadership and Community Engagement. Her nominators noted that she is one of the most hardworking people in the major, and they praised her passion for justice, empathy, reliability, and enthusiasm.

Corral Robles’ contributions embody the ethos and values of the major, to “nourish and honor the leadership and dignity of those around her such as her peers and the young people she works with.” This work is often behind the scenes: to listen, ask critical questions, connect with others, ensure all voices are heard, and take on sometimes unglamorous tasks. One student stated, “Cynthia shows the true definition of what a leader looks like.”

This academic year, Leadership and Community Engagement Capstone Seniors co-created a community-based research project with Young Aspiring Americans for Social and Political Activism. This project focused on student voice and school board decision-making within the Denver Metro Area. Corral Robles’ peers note her leadership on the project team and her passion for centering relationships and social justice.

Her many ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� leadership experiences coupled with the capstone project have inspired Corral Robles to continue working with youth and become a teacher after graduation. She has been accepted into Teach for America and will continue her equity and social justice work as a classroom teacher.

“My passions for working with youth stem from my own schooling experience and the desire to make it better for others,” she said. “I want to create a world in which people of all identities are seen, accepted, and supported especially within the education system. Witnessing how some people have to fight for the right to be heard and experiencing it firsthand is what drives my passion to become a teacher. Whatever happens after teaching, I will continue to advocate for youth as I know that everyone needs the space to begin to create a world they are proud to be a part of.

In her own words

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I have grown up in Colorado. My hometown is Aurora, CO where I first became inspired to work with the community and help others. I decided to attend ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� because I did not want to be that far away from my family. Once here, I was lucky enough to stumble across the Leadership and Community Engagement major. I decided to add it as my second major because I knew that I wanted to continue working with youth post graduation and that this major would continue to give me the tools to do so.”

What is one of the lessons from your time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� that you’ll carry with you into the next chapter?

One of the greatest experiences I will carry into my next chapter of life is the INVST community studies summer program that I was able to participate in. I was able to travel around states with an incredible group of people. I was learning about how to engage with various community members while actually going into different communities. My happiest memories come from this trip as I was able to rekindle my passion for fighting to create a better world and to top it off I was able to meet my best friends. I will take with me the importance of going into something new with an open mind and how valuable it is to get out of your comfort zone.”

What does graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� represent for you and/or your community?

Graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� to me represents an opportunity to give back. It is the ability to take what I have learned and pour it back into the communities which helped me achieve this success. Overall I think it represents a lot of hard work and uncertainties, but overall the idea that everything works out exactly how it is suppose to.”

What is your best piece of advice for incoming students?

Do your best to find a community in which you can be yourself. It may be a campus club/organization, a sorority, or simply a really good group of friends. Whatever it is, I urge you to find like minded people which can help you grow and make your college experience very fulfilling.”

What continues to drive your passion for your work after graduation?

After graduation I will become a teacher in Denver. My passions for working with youth stemmed from my own schooling experience and the desire to make it better for others. I want to create a world in which people of all identities are seen, accepted, and supported especially within the education system. Witnessing how some people have to fight for the right to be heard and experiencing it first hand is what drives my passion to become a teacher. Whatever happens after teaching, I will continue to advocate for youth as I know that everyone needs the space to begin to create a world they are proud to be a part of.”

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Meet Angélica Gutierrez, an educator in the fight for equitable education

Anonymous — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 22:08:12 +0000

Meet Angélica Gutierrez, an educator in the fight for equitable education Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 04/29/2022 - 16:08

Early on, Angélica Gutierrez, learned to fight for equitable education and defend the high school and school district that afforded her valuable lessons.

“I grew up going to Adams 14 schools, and despite all of the narratives out there about the district, I learned a lot of valuable lessons and skills,” she said. “Going to that district made me realize early on that certain schools face a lot of disparities when it comes to funding, 'achievement' and overall resources… That is why I specifically feel so connected with the idea of educational equity and that is the reason why I decided on the School of Education at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��.”

I grew up going to Adams 14 schools, and despite all of the narratives out there about the district, I learned a lot of valuable lessons and skills. Going to that district made me realize early on that certain schools face a lot of disparities when it comes to funding, "achievement" and overall resources… That is why I specifically feel so connected with the idea of educational equity and that is the reason why I decided on the School of Education at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��."

Gutierrez has balanced a great deal to get to graduation at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� — working while staying on top of her classwork, engaging fully in her practicum and student teaching placements, and still finding time to engage in advocacy work in Adams 14, near Commerce City where she resides while finishing her final semester in the School of Education.

These are just some of the reasons she has been selected as the 2022 Outstanding Graduate in Elementary Education by School of Education faculty.

“Angélica was incredibly thoughtful and curious, always asking important questions,” faculty nominators said. “She gets the ‘why’ of what education should be.”

Gutierrez pushes and extends her learning in ways that center her bilingual students and demonstrate her deep critical consciousness. As a student teacher in a first grade class at Ellis Elementary in Denver Public Schools, Gutierrez reflected on and applied feedback provided to her by her mentor teacher, instructors, and her field coach. She knew and thought about each child in the room.

As a first-generation college graduate from an immigrant family, Gutierrez dedicated her accomplishments to her hard-working parents, who moved the family from Mexico when she was young and have always supported her dreams. Now this “thoughtful, optimistic, engaged student,” as her professors have described her, strives to make her parents proud as she begins her career as a teacher and returns to teach in her home district and continues to fight for the students in her community and the education they deserve.

In her own words

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I was born in Parral, Chihuahua, Mexico, and I am very proud to come from a family of immigrants. I arrived at a very young age to Commerce City, Colorado, where I consider my home. I have lived there my whole life and I plan to continue to live and hopefully teach there. I grew up going to Adams 14 schools, and despite all of the narratives out there about the district, I learned a lot of valuable lessons and skills. Going to that district made me realize early on that certain schools face a lot of disparities when it comes to funding, "achievement" and overall resources. A lot of the time, I found myself fighting for an equitable education and defending the high school the I believed in so much. That is why I specifically so connected with the idea of educational equity and that is the reason why I decided on the School of Education at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��.”

What is one of the lessons from your time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� that you’ll carry with you into the next chapter?

One of the greatest lessons from my time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� is learning how to really believe in myself and my capabilities. Early on, I experienced a lot of culture shock and imposter syndrome, and it often felt like I didn't belong in an institution like CU. I had to learn how to really love myself for who I am. My identities were some of the things that empowered me the most while being at CU. I mainly wanted to prove all the people who had stereotypical ideas of what people like me could and couldn't do, wrong.”

What does graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� represent for you and/or your community?

I am the first in my family to attend a university and will be the first in my family to graduate from a university. This means so much to us. My family has made a lot of sacrifices, by bringing me and raising me in this country. Life has not always been easy for my parents, but they work so hard to give me everything I need. Together we have had to navigate a different world from what they were used to in Mexico, but they did it so I could have a life full of opportunities here in the U.S. My parents always tell me that they wish they could give me more, but to me, I feel like I don't do enough to repay everything they have done for me. It brings a lot of pride to my parents, my siblings, and my nieces and nephews. I honestly owe everything I have accomplished to them because they have always supported me and my dreams so much. It is because of their lessons, their love and their pride in me that keeps me going.”

What is your best piece of advice for incoming students?

My advice is geared to other first-generation, BIPOC students who are entering this space for the first time. You will be okay. You are not alone. You belong. Things might feel really hard at first and you might feel like going back home is your best option. It will get better and you will find your space in this institution. Look for others who are like you and who make you feel like you are home away from home. Never change who you are and what your passionate about. Always remember where you come from and everything you've done to get to where you're at. You deserve to be there, because you have worked so hard and will achieve your dreams.”

What continues to drive your passion for your work after graduation?

My community of Commerce City drives my passion. Commerce City is where I consider home, and with everything that has been going on in terms of the education system in place, I know that I want to go back and work there. What is happening is only a fuel for me to want to stand up once again and fight for the education that the students deserve. I want to be able to work there, create relationships with the families, and see if there is anything I can do so that the youth feel seen and honored for who they are. I know how resilient Commerce City kids can be, and I know that with the right supports, they can create change. There are a lot of hidden gems in Commerce City, and I cannot wait to continue highlighting them as a community member but also hopefully as an educator.”

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Meet Rachel Emmitt, teacher and critical educator

Anonymous — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 20:25:24 +0000

Meet Rachel Emmitt, teacher and critical educator Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 04/29/2021 - 14:25

Rachel Emmitt has always known that she wanted to become a teacher, in part, thanks to the amazing elementary teachers she had in school. When it came time for her to apply to undergraduate programs, ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� elementary education program stood out for its opportunities to be close to her family in Lakewood, Colorado, and to a part of the inaugural graduating class in the School of Education’s elementary education bachelor’s degree program.

“I found it very cool and unique to be the first graduating class in the elementary education major,” she said.

The program, which combines elementary teacher education and the culturally and linguistically diverse education (CLD) endorsement, focuses on anti-racist, justice-centered learning where future teachers create classrooms that are welcoming to all students, and this ethic aligns with Emmitt’s goals as an educator.

“As I have grown older, my love for teaching has grown as I have become passionate about providing students with equitable learning experiences and narrowing achievement gaps that typically stem from systematic barriers related to race and socioeconomic status,” she said.

Emmitt and her peers often see themselves as agents of change, who advocate in solidarity with minoritized students and their families. Throughout their final semester, elementary education students have been exploring teaching through action-research projects. They also gain ample experience in K-12 classrooms, including navigating pandemic-related changes in teaching, and Emmitt is particularly grateful for all that time working in classrooms and with mentor teachers.

Just like the original teachers and role models who help guide Emmitt towards a career in education, today her mentors from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� and local schools have helped her grow as an educator.

As I have grown older, my love for teaching has grown as I have become passionate about providing students with equitable learning experiences and narrowing achievement gaps that typically stem from systematic barriers related to race and socioeconomic status."

Her instructors and mentor teachers commend Emmitt’s dedicated and reflective practice, and they noted she has produced some of the strongest academic work they have seen from an undergraduate student.

“Rachel is a quietly observant and reflective person with a shrewd eye towards injustices in schools and society and a deep joy and appreciation for working with children,” noted the program faculty in selecting Emmitt as the 2021 Outstanding Graduate for Elementary Education.

“Rachel takes in everything she reads and hears from others, engages deeply with ideas, and observes the dynamics of schooling closely so that she can mull things over and then generate deeply reflective standpoints with a sharp critique of injustices.”

Not only are her professors excited to see Emmitt bring her thoughtful and critically reflective standpoints into her classrooms, they also believe these gifts will benefit her professional learning communities and inspire others to teach in ways that can change the world for better.

For Emmitt, graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� with a BA in elementary education and the CLD endorsement reflects the skills, knowledge, experience and accreditation she needs to confidently begin teaching, and she is grateful for all the time spent in classrooms. She hopes to secure a teaching position in the Denver-metro area, once again, to remain close to family and launch her career as a critical educator to stay true to her heart.

“What drives my passion for after graduation is the privilege of working with students and getting to be impactful in their schooling experiences,” she said. “As an educator, I am passionate about providing my students with equitable learning experiences, where each student feels valued, appreciated, and safe in a classroom community.”

Rachel’s advice for education students

Be your true self in college. Follow your own interests and passions and embrace your identity in terms of both academic and social settings. Following the paths of others will only set you back in college, and I have learned that you have the most fun when you are your true, genuine self.”

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