Kathleen L. Small Teaching Scholarship

Pursuing a career in education, specifically as a kindergarten or first-grade teacher, is a heartfelt decision driven by my extensive experience and a deep passion for shaping young minds. Having spent over seven years in the childcare field as an infant and toddler teacher and as a nanny, I've witnessed the profound impact of early education on a child's development. These experiences have not only honed my skills but have also deepened my commitment to nurturing the intellectual and emotional growth of young learners. Each day spent with children is a new adventure and an opportunity to influence their futures positively. It's in these formative years that children learn the cornerstones of social interaction, empathy, creativity, and critical thinking. My role has allowed me to see the transformation from dependency to discovery, watching as each child develops unique thoughts and abilities. My goal is to extend this influence by transitioning into a classroom environment where I can reach and inspire even more children at a critical stage in their educational journey. My inspiration to pursue this path comes from two primary sources: the wonderful children I have had the privilege to teach and care for, and my partner, who is a dedicated middle school teacher. Observing the daily growth and evolution of the children I work with offers constant motivation. Their innate curiosity and eagerness to learn fuel my passion for educational work and reinforce the impact of early childhood education. Moreover, my partner's commitment to his students significantly influences my educational aspirations. His role as an educator in San Jose, particularly impressive as someone for whom English is not a first language, showcases the profound effect a devoted teacher can have. His ability to connect with and inspire his students, despite the language and cultural barriers he has faced, underscores the universal language of dedication and love for teaching. Witnessing his hard work and the outcomes he achieves with his students every day motivates me to strive for the same level of impact and dedication in my teaching career. I believe that my background, combined with a scholarship aimed at fostering educational professionals, would allow me to achieve my dream of becoming a foundational part of children's educational journeys. By investing in my potential, this scholarship will not only aid in my professional development but also in the development of countless young lives. The opportunity to enhance my skills and knowledge as an educator is more than a personal achievement; it's an avenue to inspire, mold, and elevate the next generation of learners, helping them build a solid foundation for lifelong success.