Congratulations to Aleisha Gottwald, Music Teacher at Turner Elementary!
We’re excited to highlight our Turner Horizon Award nominee, Aleisha Gottwald, music teacher at Turner Elementary!
The program, sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education, recognizes and rewards teachers who have served as outstanding representatives of excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms of the state during their first year of teaching.
Ms. Gottwald is this year’s district nominee. Next, her application will move to the state level.
Below is a Q&A with Ms. Gottwald.
Q: Why did you choose to go into the teaching field?
A: When I started my undergrad, I originally majored in Environmental Geology, but I realized that career wouldn’t have been fulfilling for me. I’ve always had a passion for kids and music and quickly changed my degree to Music Education. When I was in school, music was an outlet for me, and my music teachers were transformative in my life. I hope to make a positive impact on my students and help them develop a lifelong love of music.
Q: What did you most enjoy from your first year of teaching?
A: Some of the best moments from my first year were the performances the students put on. Music programs, recorders, field trips, and choir were all opportunities for kids to show off their hard work. For many of the students involved with these performances, they were doing something brand new, whether it was playing a new instrument or singing in more than one part. They were so proud of themselves and seeing them succeed on stage was incredibly rewarding!
Q: What do you most like about teaching in the Turner School District?
A: I love the Turner community. As a first-year teacher, I felt supported by district and building leaders, the other music teachers, Turner Elementary staff, and the families of my students. I moved to Kansas City by myself the summer before my first year and didn’t know anyone, which was pretty intimidating. The staff at Turner Elementary welcomed me and made me feel included, and now I’m grateful that many of my colleagues have turned into friends.