Teacher Feature⼁Introducing Lyndsay K.
At Pacific Preparatory, we are so lucky to work with the most thoughtful and inspiring instructors, all who bring lessons to life with engaging connections to student interests and their community. This month, we are excited to celebrate Lyndsay!
Meet Lyndsay (she/her)! To get to learn from someone like Lyndsay is a true gift. With over 20 years of teaching experience across elementary and middle schools, an MA in Reading Education and a BS in Elementary Education, Lyndsay is exactly what we think of when we think “top notch teacher.” She holds certifications in early childhood education pre-K through 3, elementary education, middle school math, and K-12 reading. No matter a student or their goals, Lyndsay excels at helping them on their journey. Savvy across curriculum and grades, Lyndsay’s “sweet spot” is K-5, especially reading and math and supporting students with learning differences. Tutor Corps and Pacific Preparatory students thrive under her tutelage. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, riding her horses, and cooking for her family.
When did you start teaching and why?
I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. This dream began when I was in Mr. Andrew’s 2nd grade class. His remarkable ability to connect with each student and make learning an engaging experience deeply inspired me. I began teaching part-time in a pre-kindergarten classroom at a private school in 2003 while still in college. That’s when I knew this was the right career path for me. After graduating in 2005, I accepted my first full-time teaching position in the school district of my childhood in Southern Maryland. Since then, I have spent most of my career teaching grades 5-8.
What’s your favorite subject to teach and why?
While math can be a source of anxiety for some students, it's definitely my favorite subject to teach. I love to make learning math fun and engaging. I can be creative and incorporate activities like digital scavenger hunts, picture reveals, and pixel art into my lessons. Witnessing my students overcome their fear of math and experience the pride of understanding a challenging concept is incredibly rewarding.
What is your favorite activity to do outside of teaching?
Since welcoming Odie, my Australian Shepherd puppy, into our family in May, my life has taken a delightful turn. Training him has reignited a passion I first discovered as a teenager and his intelligence and endless energy keep me constantly entertained and active. This summer, we embarked on a new adventure – family camping trips in our camper. Exploring new destinations and watching Odie thrive in nature has become one of my absolute favorite ways to spend my time outside of teaching.
How did any misconceptions of virtual 1:1 learning compare to the reality?
One misconception about virtual 1:1 learning was the belief that genuine connections with students would be unattainable. However, I've experienced some of the most meaningful student relationships in this virtual setting. Freed from the distractions and constraints of a traditional classroom, students in 1:1 learning environments often feel more comfortable expressing themselves authentically. This personalized approach allows a deeper understanding of individual learning styles and breaks down barriers that may hinder progress in a traditional setting. As a result, my students thrive and demonstrate a level of engagement and personal growth that I was less likely to witness in larger classroom environments.
Lyndsay, we and your students are so lucky to have you on our team!