Greetings! My name is Katherine Irving and I am from Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania! I am studying Elementary and Early Childhood Education, with a minor in Special Education and Deafness in Hearing Studies. Next year, I hope to continue my studies at The Pennsylvania State University with the 4+1 SPLED Masters Program.

Outside of my studies, I am a current general body member and former Volunteer Chair for Kesem Central PA; where I work throughout the year to prepare for a week-long, expense-free Summer camp for children that have been impacted by their parent’s cancer diagnosis. I am also a general body member for Harmony at Penn State, a group focused to help performers with disabilities express themselves through musical theatre. In addition, I have been heavily involved with Penn State THON throughout my college experience. THON is a student-run philanthropy committed to enhancing the lives of children and families impacted by childhood cancer through emotional and financial support. In my first year at Penn State, I was a leader for the Special Events committee for Altoona Benefiting THON; followed by the Student Involvement Executive Chair in my second year. In my third year, I was a Family Relations Captain for THON 2022 where I connected with many different families to be an advocate and a friend in their journey through and beyond cancer. This year, I am a Special Events Captain for THON 2023, in which my responsibilities entail planning and executing events to spread awareness of THON’s mission and bring light to the experiences of our Four Diamonds Families. Each of these involvements enhances my teaching experience as I have learned more about how to foster relationships with my class, practice resilience in a leadership position, and strengthen my creative skills.

At home, I am passionate about working in my position as a Teacher’s Aide in a Kindergarten Classroom. I have obtained so much experience from my job working with children. I have not only learned more about what it takes to be a successful and effective educator but also how to be a better human being. Some of the skills I frequently use in this experience are organization, effective communication, creativity, willingness, and outgoingness. I am excited about my student teaching experience as it will bring me closer to my future aspirations.