6th Grade: Jordan Rose

Happy Teacher Interview Thursday!

Today I have my soon to be niece Jordan who is a teacher and Plunder Stylist. Of course you can follow her fun styling adventures on Instagram at jorr.rose.styled. She is on her 2nd year of teaching and what a year to completely flip everything upside down.

Here is her interview:

1. What did you want to be when you were growing up?

When I was growing up, I wanted to be a cosmetologist.

2. Is there a moment that sticks out to you that you remember from school with a teacher you had growing up?

In elementary school, myself and my parents were told that I would not be able to function past a high school level. I did have a talking issue  from time to time in the classroom but academically scored fine in all areas of testing. The teacher would often separate me from the entire class, raise his voice and leave me to face a corner for most of my days. From that point forward, I knew I had to be a teacher for students like myself. I wasn't a bad student, I was just a chatterbox and sometimes just needed a bit of attention. Now as a teacher, I see those students. I ensure to take time when it is appropriate to let them get their thoughts out and be a listening ear. I never want students to feel less or secluded from their classroom and I ensure everyday that students know that I am so happy they are present and take the time to just get to know them any chance I get.  

3. How long have you been teaching, what state/country do you teach in, what do you teach, and what did it take for you to get there?

I have been teaching for two years now. I teach 6th grade multiple subjects in the central valley of California. In order to get the position I now hold, I had to obtain my BS degree and enroll into a teaching credential program. I chose to enroll through Alliant International University. I am currently finishing up my credential with two more classes. For my program, I followed the standard intern path that has allowed me to teach in the classroom while working towards my credential. Throughout the program, I have had to complete the 3 multiple subject CSETs and I am currently working on the RICA and EdTPAs. 

4. What is your go-to tool you use in the classroom and why?

My go-to tool in my classroom is pear deck! Our district has provided the resource to allow a more interactive approach with distance learning. This tool allows me to create a fun presentation that keeps students engaged and learning at the same time. All lessons I present to my students are through this tool. It allows me to present information, ask for responses or participation, freeze student screens and give feedback all within the same program! 

5. Is there anything you do to accommodate your students and how often do you find yourself using that accommodation?

To accommodate my students I constantly do check ins with Ms. Rose. We do these every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. If students are needing more check in times I accommodate that as well. This check in is filled out in google forms and prompts students to answer three questions. They are to answer, "I wish my teacher knew_____", check a box that expresses their level of stress on a scale of 1-5 and a free response that ask how Ms. Rose can help them to be successful in class. Once I read through the responses, I do meet with my students one-on-one and get to know them and make the student-teacher connection and help relieve any stress that I possibly can. 

6. You're also a plunder stylist, how has it been teaching and having a side hustle? Any advice for someone wanting to start selling plunder?

Having a side hustle is so much fun. I eventually want to run my own boutique but, for now I have just started bringing my style to those interested and offering pieces I wear to anyone interested. Anyone wanting to sell plunder, please reach out to any stylist, we would love to have you on board. I never thought in a million years I'd be selling plunder but, I have so much fun and love getting to offer affordable jewelry to those interested. If you're ever interested in a side hustle, do it! If it's something you truly enjoy, you'll do great! 

7. Any advice for a new teacher you wish you had known?

For any new teachers, my biggest piece of advice is to always remember your why. There's times when you'll be overwhelmed with paperwork and meetings but remember why you started, remember why you worked so hard to be a teacher. There is no greater feeling after having a tough day than to see those smiling facing in your classroom the very next morning. I promise they're so worth it! 

8. What is your district's plan for going back to school in the fall?

As for now, we are still on distance learning. We hope to bring students back after Thanksgiving recess depending on our county health department. We have sent in a waiver and hope for good news soon (fingers crossed).

9. A lot of people have been saying they hope things start to change in education since this Pandemic, do you think anything will change from it?

I truly hope to see a change in education. The change I hope for is the ability for education to be valued. Too often we forget that attending school is a privilege rather than just another day. I hope teachers see that we are unbreakable and can conquer endless amounts of opportunities for students. I hope we never lose the drive to bring the best to our classroom and students no matter where we are teaching from.   I hope students cherish their time in the classroom rather than thinking this is just another day stuck in a classroom. I hope in general, the public understands the importance school has on the younger generations who will someday lead our world. 

10. Last but not least, where do you see yourself in ten years?

In ten years, I see myself continuing to teach in the central valley and running a small boutique.

Thanks for the interview Jordan!

Happy Teaching :)