Dr. Kirsten Young
B.S., BVetMed, RCVS

I completed my Student Teaching in the Spring of 2017. The placement lasted 10 weeks and I was placed at my alma mater, Atlee High School, in Mechanicsville, Virginia. I was delighted to see my High School Teachers again and work along with them as colleagues. The atmosphere at Atlee High is welcoming and everywhere I went I heard "if you need anything please come by my room and ask."

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My clinical faculty member was amazing! She eased me into taking on a full load by allowing me to observe then take over one class at a time. I learned a lot of great techniques such as having students bring their homework up to the teachers computer to save time. She also made me feel welcomed by not only introducing me to the science department, but also bringing me flowers on my first day officially teaching. 

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I taught two different classes while at my placement, Pre-IB and Standard 9th grade Biology (my schedule is to the right). I learned how to differentiate my lessons for the two different content and learning styles. The content I was responsible for teaching both classes was DNA, students said it was one of the toughest topics so far. Below is a detailed analyses of an assessment I conducted on one Standard 9th grade class in order to know the impact I made on student's learning. 

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While at my placement, I tried to be involved within the Atlee community. I participated in two faculty meetings, one school board meeting about changing the grade point scale, and a Departmental Olympic Game. I also stayed on a half day and participated in Atlee Beautification Day by painting doors throughout the school.

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Atlee High School has a great sense of community not only in each department, but throughout the school. I'm thankful I got to start and finish my college experience where I grew up with some of the best mentors and students. 

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