This portfolio reflects my student teaching and entry level skills. It outlines my personal information, and professional teaching skills as mandated in the state of Michigan, and my personal beliefs about teaching.

1. Keri A. Powell Elementary Teacher Certified K-8 w/ ZA Endorsement and Special Education Experience

2. Keri A. Powell Why do I want to teach? I’ve put a lot of thought into that question. I want to teach for several reasons: it’s a childhood dream, I’ve been inspired by some wonderful teachers that have touched my life along the way - and it’s my way of returning the favor. I also have a love of learning and questioning the world around me, and I am always meeting new people that are teaching me something new and wonderful. I believe that educating our youth is a most noble profession. Teachers are extremely hard workers, that do whatever they can to educate their students and make a difference in their lives. Teachers have the power to positively change another person’s life by introducing them to new experiences, and connecting the classroom to real-world application. I look forward to the many opportunities to share my love of learning with my students – to connect, to inspire, to believe in them and watch them shine! 

23. The “Geometree” I created a two-week geometry unit based on the GLCE’s for second grade during my student teaching. The ‘Geometree’ on the left dropped geometry surprises for the students to find the following school day! Students learned basic shapes, attributes, vocabulary, and experimented with pattern blocks. This unit is available upon request.

24. Autumn Display

26. Birthday Graph At the beginning of the school year, the 2 nd graders and I made a birthday graph. The students decorated their own cakes, and we labeled them with their name and date of birth. The graph was displayed in our classroom.

29. Cooperative Learning We paired high school biology students with Kindergarteners to teach mini science lessons! It was hands-on, and a great learning experience for everyone.

30. Little Reindeer

41. Let’s Have a Great Year!