Enrollment in the teacher-preparation program at the UNC Center for Urban Education (CUE) was strong this fall—evidence of a new wave of Denver-area citizens who want to support our children’s growth and mold the future of teaching as a profession.

We wanted to get to know more about our new students and asked some of them a few questions, including why they were drawn to teaching as a career. Thanks to Kayla Readus, Chuda Dhungana, and Jessie Christensen for their participation. And welcome to all of our new students!

On why she became a teacher:

"I always appreciated my teachers and how hard they worked. I went to what many consider an 'inner city school.' A lot of students went through experiences kids shouldn’t have to go through. My high school business teacher and varsity volleyball coach made it her mission to always be there for me, even in tough times. She keeps in touch even now—four years after I graduated—because she truly cares. As I got older, I knew I wanted to teach because I could really impact students and make differences in their lives, especially in Denver, where I’m from."

On working with young children:

"They’re so eager to learn and try new things. It always makes teaching fun."

On being a student at the Center for Urban Education:

"Almost all of my instructors are teachers or principals for elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools. I feel confident that I am getting the best information from very qualified people."

Fun fact:

Readus is expecting a baby boy this December, and says, "I cannot wait to meet him!"

On why he was drawn to teaching as a career:

"I taught for six years in Nepal, and it gave me feelings of immense happiness and satisfaction. Teaching is one of the best jobs in the world because it gives me an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of students. It allows me to give back to the community that has given me so much."

On being a student at the Center for Urban Education:

"I like the small class sizes, supportive teachers and advisors, and accelerated courses."

Fun fact:

Dhungana is an avid soccer player.

In August, the UNC Center for Urban Education welcomed 61 new students. Director Dr. Rosanne Fulton greeted them with these words of encouragement, “We are so glad to partner with all of you as you work to attain your dream of becoming teachers. Your diverse life experiences will contribute a great deal to our schools in the Denver metropolitan area.”

As the community adapts to a new definition of “school,” the instructors at CUE will help teacher candidates learn to teach effectively online and face to face. If you’re interested in becoming a teacher, contact us to start the conversation.

Professor Jessica Feld—who teaches the science methods course at the UNC Center for Urban Education—partners with Mr. Curt Brown, a community member who refurbishes binoculars and their cases. Over the course of three years, Brown has donated a total of 125 pairs of binoculars to teacher candidates in the science methods course. The binoculars allow students to make careful scientific observations in the field. The Center thanks Mr. Brown for his generosity and special contribution to the teacher candidates at CUE.

Did you miss previous issues of the Chronicle? Visit the Leadership Council page on our website, scroll down, and click on past newsletters.

Rosanne Fulton, PhD
Director, Center for Urban Education
UNC Denver Center at Lowry
1059 Alton Way
Denver CO 80230
Office: 303-637-4334
rosanne.fulton@unco.edu
www.unco.edu/UrbanEd