Ruthie
Teacher at Berkeley Little School
Creative
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Passionate
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Fun
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Creative - Passionate - Fun -
What makes you proud to be a part of the Little Schools?
The Little Schools have a really strong focus on community that has a huge impact on the school. Parents, kids, teachers, staff, and everyone else involved are given opportunities for connection and community. It makes it feel like we are all part of the same team. I feel very supported by everyone here.
What's something that always makes you smile?
Tiny dogs
What’s your superpower in the classroom?
Creating opportunities for kids to express themselves in their own way and being their authentic selves. I’ve always loved kids’ individuality and helping them be confident in who they are.
What makes working with young children special to you?
I think it is the most fun job in the whole world! I am so grateful to be able to come to work every day and be welcomed with joy and love. Working with this age is especially fun because you get to watch them grow so much in just one school year. I love seeing their progress and discovering new things about the world! It is so much fun to see the world through their eyes.
More About Ruthie
I graduated from Lewis & Clark college in Portland, OR with a degree in Psychology, with a focus on early childhood development. During this time, I spent three years participating in a psychological research study, where we evaluated the effects of parents' emotions on their infants. It was really meaningful to me to contribute to the emerging scientific research that helps us understand how a child’s mind works. For the last three years, I have worked as a preschool/kindergarten teacher. Prior to that, I have had experiences working as a nanny, camp counselor, and at a child abuse response facility.
My favorite things to do with kids are art projects, dance parties, and yoga. I love seeing children’s individual creativity blossom. My main values when it comes to teaching are connection, love, and individuality. When a child feels connected to and loved by their caregiver, they are able to grow in such beautiful ways. The best way for me to connect with a kid and make them feel comfortable is to create a relationship with them where their individuality can shine. I look forward to connecting with the children and families at Berkeley Little School.
In my free time, I enjoy playing piano, reading, baking, and being outdoors. I am new to the Bay Area and love exploring outdoors here, going on hikes or seeing cool parks. I also love crafting and practice many different kinds of art in my personal life, such as music, painting, pottery, and drawing. I come from an artistic family so I really enjoy connecting with kids through art.