Learning to Lead: Student Teachers Find Support in USD 379
Braxton Kindel and Chloe Wolfe came to USD 379 looking for classroom experience in a small community. They have since found welcoming schools, supportive mentors, and opportunities to grow into the teachers they hope to become.
Kindel is student teaching in social studies under JD Lane at Clay Center Community Middle School, while Wolfe works alongside Randi Weller in second grade at Lincoln Elementary. Their experiences show how the district helps future teachers move from college coursework into the responsibilities of teaching.
A Kansas State University student from Concordia, Kindel sought a placement in a school district similar in size to the one he attended. Family connections in Clay Center made USD 379 an appealing choice.
Although he initially hoped to teach high school, he has found working with eighth graders a positive experience.
“I was honestly a little worried about middle school, but it has been an easy transition," Kindel said. "I really enjoy the school district and JD as a resource. I am a big social studies nerd, so talking with someone who has so much experience in the subject has been super beneficial."
Wolfe, who attended Neosho County Community College and Washburn University, also wanted the connections available in a smaller district. Her fiancé (Wakefield P.E. teacher Keegan McDonald) is from the area, and Lincoln’s welcoming atmosphere has reinforced her choice.
“Lincoln just feels more like a family,” Wolfe said. "Everyone is so kind and took me under their wing. And Mrs. Weller has been amazing. I have learned so much from her in just the first month."
Both student teachers are gaining experience beyond instruction through school meetings and anticipated participation in parent-teacher conferences. Their placements offer opportunities to understand the responsibilities and relationships that come with leading a classroom.
"Coming in, I didn't know if I was prepared to be a teacher, but now that I've been there I feel like the hands-on experience has made me prepared," Wolfe said.
Both hope to continue teaching in the area, and possibly in USD 379. That would not be new to the district, as teachers like Elizabeth Bott, Stefanie Ehlers, DeAnna Coughlin, Kevin Colle, Michele Artman, Austin Last, Kelby Wichman, and Hannah Chestnut all student taught in 379 before choosing to work full time here.