Meet Natalie! Natalie, or Miss Scott, will be joining our teaching team in the fall. She is a recent graduate from Whitworth University where she earned her degrees in Elementary Education and Mathematics Education, with a minor in Reading.
Tell us about yourself!
Some fun facts about myself...
I love the outdoors! During the warmer months, you will always find me with my paddleboard and a fishing pole in my truck bed, just in case I have a few minutes to spare. I spend all my weekends in the colder months hunting and camping, putting hundreds of miles on my boots with my dad. I am ecstatic about the opportunity to live so close to the ocean and explore so many new places.
I had the incredible experience of teaching in the Dominican Republic for a term. Immersing myself in a bilingual discovery school, specifically in a second-grade classroom, absolutely changed my perspective as an educator. The intercultural exchange not only enriched my teaching methods but also allowed me to explore the island's beauty, from hiking to extraordinary waterfalls to snorkeling in the ocean with my friends, all while enjoying the vibrant local music scene.
I am astrophobic. Ever since I was a small child, I’ve had the most intense fear of outer space. My first graders helped me face this fear during my student teaching, when we studied the sun and the moon!
What made you want to work for Shelton School District?
Shelton is a school district with big dreams - much like me! I took one look at the district's strategic plan, and I knew I would be contributing to a mission so much bigger than myself. Cultivating a culture of literacy, preparing students for college and career, and fostering a safe and welcoming environment are all goals that deeply resonate with my own aspirations as a teacher. I am thrilled to be part of the team at Shelton, where I know the community is committed to empowering students to reach their full potential.
What do you look forward to the most about working here?
I'm looking forward to building relationships within the Shelton community, which has already been so welcoming. I am fully embracing the opportunity to immerse myself in a new city and get to know my students and their families, the staff, and all who are here to support Shelton.
What do you love about teaching?
What I love most about teaching is witnessing the transformative journey of my students. There's nothing more rewarding than seeing them realize their own potential and capabilities, often surpassing what they initially believed possible. As their teacher, I take on the roles of their biggest cheerleader, number one fan, and unwavering advocate. From the moment we meet, they can count on me to be in their corner, supporting them through every challenge and celebrating every success. I cherish the opportunity to create a sense of family within my classroom, fostering an environment where students feel valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive both academically and personally. Watching my students blossom and grow is the most fulfilling aspect of being an educator.
What is one way you hope to inspire, challenge, and/or empower students?
As a new teacher, one way I hope to empower my students is by sharing my own journey. I grew up in a small town very similar to Shelton. As aforementioned, I’m a bit of a dreamer, and I was determined to break out of my hometown and never look back. However, as I matured, I came to appreciate the value of my roots and the strength of my community. I want to instill in my students the importance of dreaming big, reaching their full potential, and never giving up on their aspirations. But equally important, I want them to understand the significance of remembering where they come from and the impact they can have by giving back to their communities. By sharing my experiences, I hope to encourage them to embrace their backgrounds while striving for excellence in all they do.