I think the role of a teacher is to create a safe environment for students to grow and develop as lifelong learners, who will one day positively impact society.”

Sarah’s Story

Sarah likes to think that teaching found her, instead of the other way around. She graduated high school knowing that she wanted to work with adolescents, but didn’t know in what capacity. During her freshman year at Michigan State University (MSU), she took a couple of courses that allowed her to work with local high school students. It was through this experience that she realized her calling to become a teacher.

As an undergraduate, Sarah worked with middle and secondary mathematics students to gain classroom experience. She also worked as a substitute teacher following her student teaching internship. Following graduation, she earned a secondary teaching certificate in mathematics, physics and integrated science from MSU.

In addition to her desire to impact students’ lives through teaching, she is passionate about rowing. Sarah was four-year varsity member of the MSU Crew Club. She is grateful for the valuable lessons she learned as a result of her participation in the sport.

Through professional development with a cohort of collaborative individuals who support and stretch each other, Sarah hopes to “reach all learners while improving her teaching practice.” Aside from her project-based math and science work in the classroom, Sarah coaches seventh grade girls basketball. She looks forward to continuing to coach.

This Spartan loves music, rowing, cycling, basketball and golf. She is a big fan of MSU and Detroit-based sports teams.

Knowles Academy Courses Taught

PBL: Project-Based Learning for Rigorous Math & Science Instruction