Noyce Scholar Profile
Jennifer Moran
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Mathematics, grades K-8
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Fifth year or post-baccalaureate Noyce scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
William Paterson University
Current academic or teaching status:
Graduate
School and school district:
Practicum-3rd grade at Lafayette Twp. Elementary School (Fall 2006)
Background:
In high school, they offered a child development class where 3 days a week 12 preschoolers would come in and the high schoolers would teach them. We sang songs, did crafts, read books, and planned snacks for the preschoolers. That was when I realized I really wanted to be a teacher. I started babysitting and worked at a daycare throughout high school. I also helped a Girl Scout troop earn their equine badge and chaperoned a trip to a dude ranch.
Why do you want to teach:
I really love helping children and making a difference in their lives. They definitely bring out the best in me, and I want to bring out the best in them. Seeing their eyes light up when they finally understand something makes my day. I truly believe all students have the ability to learn. If one is having difficulty, I just have to change my strategy with him or her. An unsuccessful student is a result of an unsuccessful teaching method. We just have to find what works for them and adjust when necessary.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
I substituted in a math resource room for a few days while the teacher proctored the make-up NJASK tests. During lunch, after having a different substitute, I asked the students how everything went. They said they missed the way I taught and wanted me back. It felt good to know that after only a few days I had made such an impact. It reinforces that I am a good teacher, they are learning, they do respect me, and this is definitely the career I want to pursue.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
I was going to take a break from pursuing my middle school math certification. I was having trouble paying tuition and didn’t want to add to my undergraduate loans. This scholarship is giving me an opportunity to finish my certification and live my dream of becoming a teacher.
