Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!

This year, we’re proud to celebrate the next generation of educators by highlighting our students who have been inspired to pursue educational careers thanks to incredible mentors here in Exeter. Through our internship program, these students are now gaining real-world, hands-on experience in the classroom, learning directly in the schools and from the educators who once taught them. One such student is Rachel Donnachie, a junior currently interning with Mrs. Stephanie Walters, a JHS English/Language Arts teacher. Rachel plans to become a speech therapist for elementary students and hopes to continue her studies at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster. Here’s how her teachers inspired her to become one herself:

Who inspired you to want to become a teacher?
Throughout my schooling years I’ve connected with so many inspiring and selfless teachers that I’m honored to know. As my mom was faced with the job of teaching me in 3rd and 4th grade, I quickly learned how hard of a task that was, and how becoming a good teacher is such an admiral job to take part in. My fifth grade teacher, Mrs Bihl, was one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. Her kindness and pure heart that had unending patience is what immediately captivated me into wanting to do better and possibly become a teacher. My junior high years were filled with excellent teachers like Mrs. Walters, who is now the most perfect mentor for me to currently intern with. As I go into senior year, my high school experience has been packed with the best teachers I’ve known. Feeling constant support and opportunities I couldn’t even imagine, they all individually inspire me to try and come close to their teaching abilities: Mrs. Stewart welcomed me into high school with open arms; Mr. Keebler taught me endless lessons I’ll never forget; Mr. Wisniewski was one of the coolest people I’ve ever met; Mrs. Lake was a person I could always rely on; Mrs. Defusco was the kindest and most relatable individual I know; and so, so, so, many more of these gems are working everywhere throughout America.

Have you always wanted to be a teacher?
As a kid, I had no clue what I wanted to be. I fell in love with singing and thought I’d be a rockstar at one point. But it didn’t take long for me to fall in love with being a teacher as I got into Sunday School teaching every week. This passion has just continued to grow, and now I can’t get enough of it.

Where are you completing your internship? Who have you been working with?
I’m currently completing my internship within Exeter Township Junior High School, working with one of my favorite teachers, Mrs. Walters. This eighth grade English class is packed with events that never disappoint to excite my day. As I connect with my students and the familiar school, I’ve gotten to know how much it takes to become a teacher and how much I truly admire people like Mrs. Walters for doing it. Mrs. Walters is open, creative, supportive, kind, understanding and the best person to intern with. I cannot say enough kind words about her.

What's your educational internship been like? Has it helped you solidify your decision to become a teacher?
My internship so far has been priceless! It comes with its challenges, but it also comes with its large rewards. Getting to know these growing students is an honor that I can’t get enough of. It’s kept me on my toes, making me realize how things won’t always go as planned, but it’s also let me see a whole new world and allowed me to find a new appreciation for teachers. I think I’ve learned that an educational field is fitting for a person like me–interacting with students and building connections is exactly something I want to pursue.

Is there anything you'd like to say to recognize your teachers as you near graduation?
I have so much love for every single one of my teachers I’ve had during high school. They’ve helped me through hard times while also preparing me for beyond. I could ramble on forever about each one of my teachers and how they got me to where I am now, but that’s just the magic of teaching. Their selflessness and their work has continued to inspire a whole new generation.