Claudia Brooks
B.A.Ed. - Elementary Education with a concentration in Special Education, minor in Hispanic Studies
Education
- 2025, William & Mary, B.A.Ed. in Elementary Education with a concentration in Special Education, minor in Hispanic Studies
What kind of educational and professional experiences did you have prior to beginning this degree?
Prior to William & Mary, I attended a very rural high school in southwest Virginia. I participated in a brief internship in a third grade classroom through Teachers for Tomorrow right before COVID; this experience, while brief, truly solidified my love for elementary education. The summer after my freshman year of college, I worked with Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Virginia as Youth Development Staff in their summer enrichment camp at a local elementary school. While here in Williamsburg, I have substituted in all of the Williamsburg-James City County (WJCC) elementary schools, which has allowed me to experience a wide variety of school environments, grades and teaching styles!
Why did you choose this field, and what motivates you in this work?
Some of my earliest memories are teaching my stuffed animals with a whiteboard in my bedroom, so I have always wanted to be a teacher. Growing up, school was a place where I always felt safe and valued, even if home wasn't quite that environment. As I have been in schools and worked with children, I have seen the importance of being that safe person for whoever needs one. It is so important for kids to have a person who respects and cares for them and wants them to do their best. Watching my students succeed and grow their confidence motivates me to continue even when the work gets hard.
What do you hope to be doing after graduation? In 10 or 15 years?
I hope to have my own classroom immediately after graduation! I have a true passion for teaching, specifically the importance of effective, science-based reading instruction. Whether I stay a classroom teacher or move into a more reading-focused position, I hope to be teaching and interacting with students directly.
Why did you choose William & Mary and specifically your degree program? What sets this degree program apart from those offered at other colleges?
William & Mary truly embodies their motto of "who comes here belongs here." I have found such a welcoming community in which I have formed valuable relationships with classmates, professors and friends. The School of Education is no different; I am constantly surrounded by the most passionate and kind people who truly care about the impact education brings. The experiences I have had through my practicum and special education methods classes have been invaluable. Being able to practice my learning in real world circumstances while having a real impact on the kids I work with has been so important in my learning. Through both my elementary education and special education programs, I have been thoroughly prepared to have my own classroom this upcoming fall, with a support team to fall back on and continue to learn from in the future.
What has been the most influential experience you've had so far in your program?
My student teaching has been the most influential experience I have had. I never would have imagined I would love 5th grade so much; I want to stay in this grade next year! I have been able to step into a classroom full time and truly experience teaching as a career, with direct support from my cooperating teacher in the room with me. I have learned so much, and it has been so rewarding watching my kids grow throughout the school year and build a strong relationship with them.
