Shantel Kahrs, Peet Junior High
Position: 7th Grade Social Studies Teacher
Years Teaching: 6 years
Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, going to Orangetheory Fitness, and baking/cooking.
What do you enjoy most about teaching? What I enjoy most about teaching is the students. As cliché as it sounds, they really are the best part of being a teacher. I love the energy that they bring each and every day and all of their different personalities. The students at Peet make me want to be the best teacher and role model I can be for them because they deserve my very best.
What do you find the most challenging about teaching? What I find the most challenging about teaching is balancing work and home life. The work of a teacher is never done; we could spend hours upon hours on work outside of contract hours. However, if we don’t allow time for ourselves and our families, we won’t be at our best to help our students.
Best tip for new teachers: My best tip for new teachers is to just be yourself! I remember feeling so nervous on my very first day of teaching, in my own classroom. But, I quickly realized that I just needed to be myself and allow myself to have fun. Remember that your energy is contagious!
Best tip for career teachers: My best tip for career teachers is to continue to grow in your learning and practice. If your school has an instructional coach, take advantage of opportunities to work on coaching cycles with them. Coaching cycles aren't just for new teachers; we can always be honing our craft!
Favorite piece of advice for students: My favorite piece of advice for students is to not be so hard on yourself. I want students to remember to be themselves and that what matters most is them just doing the best they can in what circumstances they face. Teachers want and know all students can succeed – we just need all of our students to believe in themselves, too!
What being a Gold Star Teacher means to you: Being a Gold Star Teacher means more to me than I could even put in words. I earned a degree in Ethics and Public Policy before realizing my purpose in life was to teach. When I started the teaching program at UNI, I was overwhelmed with a sense of peace; I had found the career that makes me the happiest and most fulfilled. Growing up in Black Hawk County, I’ve always admired the Gold Star Teachers, for teachers have always, without a doubt, been a huge part in who I am today. I feel so incredibly honored to now be a Gold Star Teacher. I love being a teacher and put my whole heart into all that I do for our kids at Peet Junior High. And, knowing that I’ve made a difference in our students' lives, makes my heart swell with so much joy.