Noyce Scholar Profile
Rachel Curtis
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Graduate: Teacher Education
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Secondary Science
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Teaching Fellow
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Tennessee/ Teach/Here Urban Teacher Residency Program
Current academic or teaching status:
I just completed masters degree and now a first year teacher at Orchard Knob Middle School.
School and school district:
I am teaching 8th grade science at Orchard Knob Middle School in Hamilton County, Tennessee.
Background:
I have an undergraduate degree in forestry from the University of Tennessee. I have always enjoyed doing environmental education.
Why do you want to teach:
I want to teach, because I feel like I can honestly make a difference in my student’s lives. I think that I can help them reach their maximum potential, and I love sharing my knowledge of science with others.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
The most memorable teaching experience I had was when a student who had trouble acting appropriately in class and participating actually became involved in class. He even volunteered to answer a question, which he had never done before. This stands out in my mind because this child spent most of his time in trouble, and most of the teachers at the school had given up on him. I refused to give up on him, and it paid off.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
It means a great deal to me, and it has allowed me to do something I have always wanted to do.
