October MonSTAR Teacher of the Month pres. by WGU Ohio
Oct 29, 2020The Cleveland Monsters are proud to announce this season's first recipient of the MonStar Teacher of the Month presented by WGU Ohio is Brittany Ceci from Chagrin Falls Intermediate School.
Mrs. Ceci is a 4th grade Special Education teacher and has been perceived as the definition of professional while continuing to do a stellar job working with at-risk learners by Principal Curtis Howard. With a reputation of being a well-respected leader in the school, Principal Howard had no hesitation nominating Mrs. Ceci for the MonSTAR Teacher of the Month. He continually observes Mrs. Ceci making all decisions with the student’s best interest in mind while consistently facing problems from the pandemic head on to find a solution.
Following the announcement, Mrs. Ceci took a moment to reflect on what she enjoys about teaching and how the pandemic has just continued to help her grow.
How have you been adapting to teaching in a new way during these times and continuing to connect with the students?
Teaching during a pandemic has given me the opportunity to expand my technology skills and learn new technology programs that enhance virtual learning for students on a daily basis.
Teaching in a hybrid model has required me to adapt lessons that blend both in person and remote learning environments into one. Collaboration with my grade level team has always been critical, but this year it is even more important to share ideas and maximize student learning.
The most important element this school year is the connection that we make with students. Spending time building relationships with students allows them to feel safe, connected, and open to embracing new learning challenges.
What has been the most meaningful moment in your teaching career?
As an Intervention Specialist, there are many moments that have been meaningful. A moment that I always find meaningful in my position is seeing the look on a student’s face when they make a connection and “get” the concept being taught. The look in their eyes and the expression on their face reminds me of why I chose this profession in the first place.
What is something you look forward to doing with your students every year?
One thing that I look forward to every year with students is our 6th Grade Retreat. I enjoy spending time with students outside of the traditional school building. This time allows you to get to know students in different ways and allows you to build relationships with students as we hike and complete outdoor learning activities. Students always comment that 6th Grade Retreat is one of their favorite things we do all year!
What is a way that has stood out in which you were supported or learned from your fellow teachers and how important is that support system especially in these times?
As an Intervention Specialist, I have had an opportunity to work with a lot of great teachers in a co-taught classroom. Being in their classrooms has allowed me to learn from their strengths when teaching a lesson and working with students. In addition to continuing to learn from great teachers in the classroom, one of the most important parts as a teacher is the relationships that are developed with my colleagues. Having a support system at school, especially in these times, has allowed me to get different ideas about what’s working in other classrooms and find time to laugh with my colleagues!