“Spending time with the kids and forming relationships with them was the best part of my Interim Term experience,” said senior Emerson Heath.
During the three weeks she spent in Kinkaid’s Lower School, Heath rotated through four different teachers, working with small groups of students on reading drills, writing practice, and even leading morning meetings and class story times.
“I loved getting to know all the kids,” Heath said. “The best feeling was when I saw them walking past the Lower School, and they’d come up to me yelling, ‘Ms. Heath.’”
Heath worked primarily with first-grade students, guiding them through various activities and providing support where needed.
“The teachers were so inviting and threw me into their classes, and it was incredible,” she said.
The experience allowed her to connect with students and understand what it takes to create a positive learning environment.
“There’s nothing like seeing a student who was struggling with something finally get it,” Heath said.
She said she loved seeing firsthand how quickly young minds develop and grow.
“It was so cool to watch the kids grasp new concepts and grow in their confidence,” Heath said.
For Heath, the experience reaffirmed her passion for working with children.
“It really cemented my desire to pursue a career with children,” she said. “The way kids approach learning with so much curiosity and excitement makes every day feel special.”
Guiding students through their lessons and being a role model for them allowed her to strengthen her leadership abilities as well.
“It was fulfilling to take on that mentorship role,” she shared. “Seeing the kids look up to me and knowing I was helping them grow both academically and personally made the experience incredibly rewarding.”
Although the work was challenging for her at times, Heath said the opportunity was unforgettable.
“The whole experience was so incredible, and I cherish it a lot,” she said. “It was the perfect chance to dive into what I love and see what it’s like to be in the classroom.”
