Meet Kate
“You always believe in other people, but that's easy. Sooner or later, you gotta believe in yourself, too, because that's what growing up is. It's becoming who you want to be. You have to try.”
- The Muppets (2011)
The Learner Behind Bluebell Learning
Hello and welcome to my blog! I’m Kate, and like most early childhood teachers, I identify as an educator and entertainer.
It’s hard to believe, but when I first approached teaching as an undergrad, I was aiming to be a high school English teacher. The deeper I went, the less I wanted to follow that pathway. I swapped my major to straight English literature, accidentally minored in world history, and graduated with a multitude of ideas about what I wanted to do with my life.
While I was figuring out my next steps, I became a full-time nanny to the sweetest baby in the world. Caring for him started me down the pathway of becoming a licensed primary school teacher. I moved abroad to Japan, began teaching at International Baccalaureate schools, and went on to complete a Masters in Education.
Every time I learn a new skill or build my knowledge, I wish I’d gained it sooner. “If only I had known [this concept] before, I could have better supported [that student].” Continuing education is especially valuable to educators, as new studies are constantly being released about childhood development and pedagogy. As a lifelong learner, I understand that as these studies become available, the most effective teaching and advice for holistic growth may change. It’s my prerogative to honor these new understandings as evidence is released, attend ongoing professional development, and adjust my courses and offerings accordingly.
I love my students, and by extension, I love their families. When a parent comes to me for advice, I give everything in my toolbox to be able to help them. I created “Learning with Bluebell” to be a platform for all the knowledge and skills I’ve found helpful over the years. By combining my love of education, public speaking, and creativity, it is my goal to build a community around learning together. It’s a little bit scary to put myself out there, but it’s exciting too. I’m looking forward to learning and growing with Bluebell.
Will you come on this learning journey with me?
