My favorite day of the week is now Thursdays! I look forward to spotlighting a new Utah teacher every week and learning about the amazing things they do inside and outside their classrooms. This week we are featuring Wendy Rush, who works as an Instructional Coach at a virtual school. I am excited to learn more about her.
Where did you do your teacher prep? Brigham Young University
Where have you taught in your teaching career? I have taught at Mapleton Elementary School. I worked several years as Mentor for BYU Summer Practicum, and I currently work at Utah Virtual Academy.
What is the funniest thing a student has ever said? “I know what you’re going to say, and let me be clear, I am never going to have a “growth mindset.”
What advice would you give to new teachers? Collaborate, collaborate, collaborate!!!
What is your favorite teacher resource? I love Digital Readworks!
Describe any experience you have had in education policy. Working with Hope Street Group to lead teacher focus groups, collect and compile data, develop and host #Utedchats, and attend my first Educators day on the Hill.
What’s the biggest change you would like to see in education? I want to see teachers being paid a living wage. No teacher should have to work 2 jobs and one in the summer to make ends meet.
Why did you choose to become an educator and why do you choose to stay in the profession? I am energized by good teaching. I look at it as an art form, and I take pride in excellence in my educational practices.
Anything else we should know? My favorite students are the most challenging students! The more difficult they are to reach, the greater the pay-off when you get through!
Wendy! Thanks for being an amazing Utah educator. Follow her teacher leadership journey on Twitter @WendyRush16
The Utah Teacher 