Sarah Totten
MEdT Dual Hawkins' Scholar
"I want to continue being a part of and contributing to the strong educational community that helps all students succeed."
Department
Special Education
Related Degrees
- MEdT, Teaching - Dual License SPED/Secondary
Why did you choose to become a teacher, in general?
For me, teaching is a very fulfilling profession. When I was in high school, I tutored students in math and found a lot of joy when they were able to make progress. I also feel like it’s very necessary to have an educated populace in order to have a strong community. By choosing to become a teacher, I can have a hand in contributing to the community I want to be a part of.
Why did you choose to become licensed in special education?
When I was growing up, my parents both worked with students with disabilities. I developed a lot of empathy and understanding of the different ways situations can be approached. After starting my teaching journey, I realized that helping all students succeed would require specialized training in the best teaching methods, leading me to special education.
Why do you feel it is important to have diversity in the classroom?
When there is a lack of diversity, you often get the same ideas and perspectives and can get trapped in a box. Diversity leads to creativity and alternative ways of thinking, or thinking outside that box. With students, it can help develop their problem solving skills, empathy, and understanding. Having diverse teachers provides students with representation and fosters an inclusive classroom and campus environment.