Noyce Scholar Profile
Valerie Spencer
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics with Teaching Emphasis
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Mathematics, grades 6-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
California State University, San Bernardino
Current academic or teaching status:
Senior
School and school district:
Richardson Prep High School, San Bernardino County Unified School District
Background:
I have played softball for 15 years and have also enjoyed coaching the game for three years. Spending time with my players I’ve realized the passion I have to teach. I will soon be the first generation college graduate, graduating with my Bachelors of Arts in Mathematics with an emphasis on Teaching. Education has and will be the most important thing to me.
Why do you want to teach:
I want to teach mathematics because I enjoy being around adolescents and it’s rewarding teaching them something I enjoy.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
I was a private math tutor to a young teenager who had attention deficit disorder (ADD). This experience stands out because this was a learning experience for both of us. I’ve realized I can learn from my students just like they learn from me. I’ve learned that all students learn differently.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
This program has given me the experience of becoming a student teacher without being in the credential program. Most students do not get this kind of opportunity, but I’ve learned a lot through my mentor teacher. I’ve learned and am still learning how to gain class control, complete my units, and how to become an effective teacher.
