Miss Katie Smith
Bio
My name is Katie Smith, but my students know me as Miss Smith. I've known ever since I was in primary school that I wanted to become a teacher. As a dance instructor and choreographer, I work with kids of all ages, nurturing their creativity and inspiring them through movement. I wanted to further my creative passion in teaching by providing a solid foundation for my student’s education.
Education
I have made a full circle with my education. I went to Huntley Centennial for my elementary school years then went to West Carleton for High School. I continued my studies at York University in the dance program and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honors. I am now in my first year at the University of Ottawa in the teacher college program. My first year of teacher’s college included my first teaching placement at Huntley Centennial Public School. Full Circle. I am doing my practicum placement and my associate teacher once taught my older sisters. I have found memories of my first school experience here and now I walk the halls making new memories.
1st Year of Placement
My first year at Ottawa University I began my teacher's education with my CSL and practicum placement at Huntley Centennial Public School. I was placed with associated teacher Allison Bowie and her grade 2 class. My first experience with the teaching profession had quite a few speed bumps. I guess this is what you might expect when you pick teaching as a career. Dealing with all night lesson planning only to have nothing go right in the classroom and realize you need a plan B. I have missed multiple teaching opportunities and lost several placement days because of the teachers strike that happened this winter. Even before the strike could be settled the outbreak of the covid-19 pandemic meant the loss of my five week placement assignment. These events during my first year have made me realize you have to think on your feet and go with the flow. Being able to adapt on the spot is a necessary part of teaching. It can be messy, stressful and go off the rails quickly if you're not organized and prepared, but it's important to make the most out of every lesson you do. Although I had many challenges, I found it to be one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences of my life. It just reinforced for me that I've chosen the right career for myself. I want to be the best I can be for my students. I want to provide them with the best educational experience that I can and give them a strong foundation for their future.
2nd Year of Placement
Second year at Ottawa University I attended my practicum placement at the Connaught Public school with a grade 3/4 split. My associate teacher Michelle Richardson has been a great influence, supporter and mentor during my practicum placement to become a teacher. I have gained classroom management tactics, worked with students with IEPs and learned to adapt those children's needs in my lesson planning. I worked closely with ESL students and acquired the knowledge on how to support them with their learning. I also worked very closely with Michelle Richardson in writing report card comments in the subjects of math and dance/art, as well as comments for their learning styles. It was a great benefit for me to assist in the report card process. Gaining this knowledge will be a real asset for when I have my own classroom.