Sarah Shiels

elementary 4th grade teacher

Track: Unified Elementary and Special Education

Hometown: Garnett, Kansas

Undergraduate degree: Bachelor of Science in Children's Ministry

What made K-State’s MAT program stand out to you?

I was at a college fair event in Olathe that hosted multiple colleges recruiting for their programs, and K-State was one of them. I connected with Dr. Vontz, and he was very personable and explained how K-State’s program seemed manageable and how the 15-month online program was still hands-on and applicable to an in-person classroom. I really appreciated that. It was also more affordable than the other universities I considered.

 

What was the transition back to college like after working for several years: At first, I was fearful of transitioning back to college, but I knew this decision would positively impact my family and myself. I am a single mom of three daughters, and I will be the first person in my family to hold a bachelor's and go on to earn a master's degree.

 

I wanted to break free from a generational cycle. I want this more than anyone else, and I am willing to fight for it. Doing this means a lot to me. I am really proud of how far I've come, with keeping straight As, teaching fourth grade full-time and being a single mom. It feels very empowering.

 

What have you learned in the MAT program that has helped in the classroom: Dr. Pesnell introduced “Which one doesn’t belong?” and I integrated it into my classroom right away. The kids loved it. It's a math website that helps kids build analytical thinking and constructive arguments.

 

I also enjoyed Dr. Larson's advice about implementing “read-aloud” activities. They are fun and practical for the students. There is another activity called “notice and wonder,” which is, “what do you notice; what do you wonder about science?”

 

What is your experience in the online MAT classroom: I love that even though K-State is a larger university, it still has a community feel. K-State MAT faculty have set up the program so I can still engage with people’s faces in the virtual meeting space. When we engage in conversation, it is helpful to put a face with a name. The College of Education has GradCats, a great way for former students to mentor current students. They are willing to help and care about our success. The professors also want to help and understand our unique situations too.