Gail Zacher
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
Monte Vista Elementary School, Montclair, CA
Milestones
My road in life has taken me all over.
First I wanted to be a teacher but went to a career day in the medical field.
Then I wanted to be a physical therapist so I entered CSULB on a state scholarship.
Then I got married at 19, changed to Mt. Sac and got an AA in Gen. Ed. when I was 8 months pregnant.
Then after 18 months I entered Cal Poly planning to become a psychologist.
Then after my BA I was ill, had surgery and took a year off to be a mom and recover.
Then I realized I really wanted to teach so I got a job as a Teachers Aide.
I loved it but I wanted another child. Had one, miscarried another and realized I wanted more.
So I returned to Cal Poly for my teaching credential. I still love it after 26 years!
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Career
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
I have taught public school Kindergarten for 26 years.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Technology
Helping People
Day to Day
I arrive before class to set up supplies, bring up PowerPoint lessons on my computer for the SmartBoard and review my plans. Once the students arrive I focus on the state standards in all academic areas. Lessons are planned to meet all learning levels and types. After the students leave I prepare materials, plan future lessons and meet with colleagues for professional development. Each day is different with a new set of challenges. I arrive by 7:30am and rarely leave before 4:30pm.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for high school students
Look for opportunities to work with or mentor younger children. At church, in scouting or baby sitting you can get an idea of how children behave and need to have activities that challenge them to hold their interest. Volunteer at the local library to read at story time to learn about children's literature. Volunteer at a day camp or daycare center. The experiences you have will guide you to decide if teaching is the right profession for you.
Recommended Education
My career is not related to what I studied. I'd recommend this path instead:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Family:
"My parents said "You should not go to college because you will drop out to get married and have babies." People said "You cannot be a teacher because Prop 13 passed and there are no jobs." Family members said "You can't go back to college because you have children. You do not have the patience to be a teacher or time to take care of other peoples children. Do you really think you are smart enough?" The teacher I worked for told me I was already a teacher in my heart and I heard that!"
Challenges I Overcame
Financial
Teen marriage/pregnancy
First-Generation College Student
