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Karen Fesenmaier

"This program was based on the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. I was required to delve deeply into all of the standards for my teaching area and to analyze my teaching practices. I made a lot of changes in my classroom over those two years. I now allow the needs of my students to drive my instructional decisions rather than just following the curriculum. I am more aware of the diversity that is in my classroom whether that be social or academic. I have better utilized the resources available to me such as other teachers, parents, and community members.

Working for my masters degree has made me a better teacher. Analyzing my curriculum allowed me to see where to apply new ideas and teaching strategies. My continuing education means my students are also receiving a better education. Because I am now a reflective practitioner, I can see where improvements need to be made in my curriculum, and I have a better handle on student progress. Keeping a journal only takes a few minutes and the rewards are tremendous. I use my journals from previous years as a reference to see what has worked in other situations and to get ideas on how I can improve. The students in my classroom are more successful because I work hard to make connections for them. Rather than just teach the material, I constantly try to relate it to my students so they have a thorough understanding of the information and how it can be used in their every day lives."

Photograph of former student: Karen Fesenmaier, Elementary Education. Spring Valley Schools, Wisconsin. Karen is now a National Board Certified Teacher! Congrats Karen!