Episode 16 – A New EL Teacher’s Perspective with Kennedy Merriam

So often we hear advice from educators who have been in the classroom, honing their craft for years. While their experience is valuable, I thought it would be refreshing to get a new EL teacher’s perspective for a change. Today, we hear from Kennedy Merriam, my student teacher this semester, who has been so open and creative during her time with me. She shares her own journey to finding ESL teaching and the reasons she is so passionate about this career. Kennedy sheds light on aspects of teaching that just can’t be found in the textbooks and how these unexpected experiences, especially with middle and high school students, keep her laughing and excited to come in each day. I also ask her to share advice for other new ELL teachers, student teachers, and classroom teachers who have English Learners in their class.

A Massachusetts native and current senior at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, NH, Kennedy will be graduating with a major in Spanish and a minor in ESOL education, with certification to teach ELL students in grades 9-12 in Massachusetts. She is passionate about the Spanish language, traveling, and writing music (she’s also a singer!). Extroverted, compassionate and a keen listener, Kennedy will always try to understand and support another person, and I have seen that in action so many times! She is eager to get even more experience working with newcomers so she can better serve them and can’t wait to continue her career working with English Learners and newcomers.

Here is what you will hear about ESL Teaching:

Resources

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