Four UTPB College of Education students have gone the extra mile, actively collaborating on projects both inside and outside of the classroom that will enhance their skills and advance their professional growth.
“They are passionate, engaged, hard-working, collaborative, intelligent, and more,” said Assistant Professor of Literacy Dr. Shelly Landreth.
UTPB juniors Eliza Diaz, Aranza Ramirez, Isabella Fuentez, and Joslyn Mendoza all took Dr. Landreth’s Literature in the Classroom course in the Fall of 2024, one of the first courses students take in the program. A key assignment in the class is students learn about the importance of reading aloud to children and how to effectively do so.
“Along the way, I offered all students in my class other opportunities to enrich their learning and increase engagement. These young ladies consistently said YES,” said Dr. Landreth.
During the class Dr. Landreth implemented a service-learning project in which they collaborated with STEM Academy to implement a motivational reading program focused on the Texas Library Association’s Texas Bluebonnet books. As they learned about reading aloud, they also planned and rehearsed a read aloud focused on one of the books. They then read the book to third through fifth grade students at the STEM academy.
The four College of Education students completed many tasks, including setting up a table at the STEM Academy Literacy Night, co-presenting a Lightning Talk at the Collaborative Conference at UTPB, co-presenting at the Texas Association for Literacy Education annual conference, collaborating on a peer-reviewed article, and planning a celebration for students at the STEM Academy as a wrap-up for the Bluebonnet program.
“I have two main motivations: my future students and my family. One of the biggest reasons I wanted to become a teacher was because of my high school Spanish teacher, who left a lasting impact on me. I want to do the same for my students by providing them with the best education — one that is engaging, fun, and helps deepen their understanding,” said Ramirez.
Ramirez’ goal is to teach Kindergarten. She says her experience at the TALE Conference provided her with valuable professional development and a variety of resources for her future classes.
“I would like to express my appreciation for Dr. Landreth. Her passion for teaching and literature shines through in every class and interaction. She consistently goes above and beyond for her students, and none of this would have been possible without her guidance,” said Ramirez.
Mendoza chose UTPB because it was the smartest choice for her due to the cost and teaching program.
“The advice I would give is to take opportunities when they are given to you,” said Mendoza.
Diaz says her experience at UTPB has been both challenging and rewarding. The support from faculty and hands-on learning experiences have helped prepare her for her future career in education.
“My biggest motivation is knowing that I can help teach the next generation. I first discovered my love for teaching through tutoring both at UTPB and on my own. Since then, I have been passionate about education and making a difference in students’ lives,” said Diaz.
Fuentez describes her experience at UTPB as an amazing learning opportunity, as she’s gained so much knowledge and support from her professors.
“The advice I would give to other students that want to be involved is do not be afraid to build connections with other people and say yes to different activities or events. This can lead to many opportunities and experiences that you will remember forever and help in the future,” said Fuentez.
