By Giuliana Aguilar – Staff Reporter

Ms. Reed has been an English teacher at Jonathan Law for two years. She teaches English 1 and Composition. Advocate Staff Reporter Giuliana Aguilar interviewed Reed about the current school year.

Giuliana Aguilar: Why did you decide to become a teacher?

Miss.Reed: I actually didn’t know I wanted to be a teacher. I started working at Rocky Hill High School and and was the in-school suspension person and I also tutored. As soon as I started tutoring kids, I realized I really liked being in the school environment and working with kids so I decided then and there that I wanted to teach. 

GA: How has COVID-19 changed the way you teach?

MR: It’s pretty much changed everything, but it also hasn’t. Obviously, the classroom isn’t as fun as it could be. We don’t do as many group activities, interactive things, materials, and using the space of the classroom. A lot of the fun ways to teach have had to change unfortunately. We’re still getting the same skills and content, just a little more boring though. 

GA: What do you enjoy doing outside of school?

MR: I play volleyball for an adult league but I haven’t in a while because of COVID. I also love to go out to dinner. I got a dog and love to play with her and go on walks.

GA: What were your expectations for the year and how have they changed?

MR: I thought the school would be less safe. I’m pleased to see how contained everything has been, for the most part. I’m not as nervous to go to work as I was in the beginning of the year and now I’m not at all anymore. I’m really happy about the cooperation everyone’s put into this. 

GA: What is your favorite class or topic to teach and why?

MR: I love teaching English 1, freshmen. I don’t really know why I just love the freshman age group because there’s an excitement and a spark for being in high school that sometimes gets diluted as you move through your other years. In terms of topics to teach, I really like anything that sparks real world discussion and anything socially or societally relevant.