When the school district was approved to start a seventh kindergarten teacher, the administration was tasked with finding someone who was not only qualified, but also adaptable to the major challenges associated with coming into the school year three months in.
After much consideration, Emily Jennings was hired to take on the role, and she has managed to transition a group of young children into a new classroom with ease. Her first few days on the job were filled with parent meetings, student introductions and of course, the chore of setting up a brand-new classroom.
Amongst her busy days of playing catch-up, Jennings fit in an interview to share a bit about her background and some of the challenges she’s been faced with as the new K-2 teacher.
 Please tell us about your background.
I grew up in Brookline. I went to Brookline Public Schools from pre-school to 12th grade. When I graduated from Brookline High School, I went to Curry College, where I graduated with a double major in Education and Integrated Liberal Studies. I spent time as a substitute teacher in Brookline and when I graduated from Curry, I was hired as an aide for kindergarten to second grade classrooms. While I was working as an aide, I went to Wheelock College for my master’s degree, and I did my student teaching in a first-grade classroom. At the end of the school year the teacher was going on maternity leave and I was hired to finish out the school year with that class. When I finished my master’s program, I was hired to be a kindergarten teacher in Brookline and then went on to teach first and second grade as well. From there, I taught first grade in Chelsea and worked as a long-term substitute teacher in Newton, as well as teaching pre-school at a private school. I also work part time for the Red Sox in the Security Department.
Is teaching something that you always wanted to do?
I have always wanted to be a teacher. I can remember when I was younger playing school and always wanting to be the teacher.
How are you adapting to the Winthrop school district?
I am adapting well to the Winthrop School District. I was fortunate enough to get to spend time in all of the Kindergarten classes before starting in my own classroom. I have met many wonderful and supportive teachers, staff, administrators and families which has made my transition that much easier.
What do you enjoy most about working in Winthrop?Â
What I enjoy most about working in Winthrop so far is the support that I have received from everyone.
Are there any challenges that come with starting a teaching job three months into the school year?Â
It was challenging to get my classroom set up, learn a new curriculum and meet new colleagues, students and families in a short amount of time.
What is your favorite thing about teaching?
My favorite thing about teaching is seeing the excitement on a child’s face when they learn something new and of course, their excitement about learning.