Teaching middle school is often described as one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences in the education field. Nora Dunne graduated from Illinois State University in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in history and social studies education with a middle school endorsement. Brooke Bryant, a 2019 graduate, majored in middle level education with her endorsements in mathematics and social studies. Both alumni currently serve as middle school teachers in South Holland School District 150. Dunne and Bryant discuss what it’s like to teach this unique age group and how their experiences at Illinois State prepared them for these roles.
Where are you now and what do you do?
Dunne: I currently teach seventh grade social studies at McKinley Junior High in South Holland, Illinois. This is my eighth year working at McKinley! I also completed my master’s degree in education technology from Concordia University in 2020.
Bryant: I teach sixth grade mathematics at McKinley Junior High in South Holland, Illinois. This is my sixth year teaching at McKinley, the school I attended as a student. I am also in school working on my master’s degree in principal leadership.
What is the best part about teaching junior high/middle grades?
Dunne: I think the best part of teaching junior high/middle grades is seeing students grow. I have seen students who have struggled in seventh grade really succeed and thrive in high school and beyond. I have worked in the same school for eight years now, and I have the opportunity to teach every seventh grader at my school. This has allowed me to stay connected with many of my past students, especially when I have the chance to teach their younger siblings or other family members. It’s also great when we take field trips to the high school to see plays, as I often get to catch up with former students who are involved in those productions. It is amazing to see how far they have come since they were in middle school!
Bryant: The best part of teaching middle school is the rapport/relationship I create with students. According to students and parents, no one is good at math. However, the relationship and sense of community that is created in each class allows students to develop life skills through mathematics. Students learn perseverance, problem-solving skills, and have fun while learning in a consequence free environment. When students know you care about them personally, you can teach them anything.
What do you remember from ISU that prepared you for the classroom?
Dunne: I think something that helped prepare me was getting into a variety of classrooms early and often. I started observing in classes in Bloomington-Normal during my sophomore year and went on class trips into more urban settings. I think this is important for future teachers to be comfortable and see the opportunities that will be available to them.
Bryant: The best lesson I received from ISU was from my special education class. The lesson was to make sure that you always think of the student first, regardless of their disability, behavior, or past behavior. The decisions they make do not define them as people. Teaching people instead of students makes the classroom environment and instruction a lot easier. I’ll never forget it.
What do you want others to know about teaching junior high/middle grades?
Dunne: Usually when I tell people that I teach seventh grade I get a negative response. People will make comments about this age being the worst, but I really love it. My seventh graders are unique, silly, smart, and creative. They make me laugh every day, and every day is different. Middle school students are more independent than younger grades, but also still excited over things like stickers, playing games, or going outside.
Bryant: I want people to know that teaching middle schoolers is not as difficult as people make it out to be. Every job has good days and bad days, but the ability to mold children before they become adults is not one to take lightly. Middle schoolers are developing their personalities, learning things they like and dislike, and are open to learning new things (especially if it involves Fortnite or Roblox). When you teach them or show them life skills and that you care, they will never forget it, or you. I truly believe that it is the best job in the world!
What advice do you have for anyone considering a career in teaching?
Dunne: I think it is important to get as much experience as you can working with kids before you become a teacher. I worked for a few years at a summer camp where I got great experience working with kids, talking to parents, and going on field trips. This will help you feel more comfortable by the time you get your own classroom.
Bryant: It’s important to find a mentor—someone who can understand what you are going through, and coach you through it. This job is specific and other fields may not understand certain situations. Surrounding yourself with people and friends within the professions allows you to vent and prevent burnout, but also gives you tools for your own classroom and networking opportunities to grow in the field.
What else would you like to share with our readers?
Dunne: Working in any school in Illinois you are most likely to find ISU alumni! It is a great community to have.
Bryant: Go Redbirds!
