By Teagan Liphardt – Staff Reporter

Ms. Kelly is an English teacher at Jonathan Law. Advocate Staff Reporter Teagan Liphardt interviewed her school year. 

Teagan Liphardt: What is the most rewarding part of being an English teacher?

Ms. Kelly:  I hope that my students remember some great stories and experiences with literature. I also hope they remember the formula of writing to help support them as they move on to harder classes and texts. I would also love it if they remember my passion for English and for them to succeed. 

TL: What do you hope students take away from your class by the end of this year?

MK: The most rewarding part of being an English teacher (especially in English 1) is reading my students’ narrative writing. Hearing about their struggles and successes in their own writing voice is my favorite part of the year. 

TL: How do you connect with your students and keep them engaged in class?

MK: I try to be kind to all of my students and keep them engaged with interesting pieces of literature, but I also hope that I have new ways for them to engage with the work so that it doesn’t feel too monotonous. 

TL: What inspired you to become an English teacher?

MK: I always wanted to work with this age group, and initially wanted to be a social worker, but when I was in High School, I had a great English teacher who really supported me through hard times. 

TL: What is your favorite book or story to teach 9th graders, and why?

MK: I really love teaching poetry in English 1 as well as Night by Elie Wiesel. That book is usually one of the first introductions my students have to the experiences of the Holocaust, and it’s a beautiful book to read.