Jaclyn Preston
M.Ed. Reading Specialist, Xavier University
M.A. Early Childhood Administration, Ball State University
Teaching Philosophy
Important skills I want to teach my students
In kindergarten, I want my students to develop a love of learning and a strong sense of intrinsic motivation. I hope to nurture their ability to collaborate with peers, build confidence to try new things, and take pride in their growing abilities. Most importantly, I want them to feel a sense of belonging and community within our classroom.
Teaching methods to reach these goals
To help my students develop a love of learning, I create a classroom environment filled with curiosity and hands-on exploration. I use play-based and inquiry-driven activities that allow children to make discoveries at their own pace and take ownership of their learning. I celebrate effort, perseverance, and personal growth with my students. I provide daily opportunities for partner and small group work where students practice taking turns, listening to others’ ideas, and problem-solving together. I create a supportive classroom culture where mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities. I encourage students to try new tasks, share their ideas, and celebrate their own successes and those of their peers. To foster a sense of classroom community, I begin each day with morning meetings, use consistent routines, and teach social-emotional skills explicitly. We talk often about kindness, empathy, and respect to help students feel safe, valued, and connected.
My favorite projects
My favorite project in kindergarten is our Passion Projects. This activity gives each child the opportunity to choose a topic they care about, create a project, and present it to the class. For many students, it’s their first experience giving a presentation, and it’s so special to see them open up and share something they are truly passionate about. The classroom environment feels safe and supportive, and it’s wonderful to watch the children listen respectfully, celebrate one another’s interests, and offer kind compliments. These presentations build confidence, foster community, and highlight each child’s unique voice and curiosity.
What I like best about teaching at Seven Hills
Teaching at Seven Hills has been such a special experience. What I love most is the strong sense of community — students, families, and faculty all work together in a collaborative and supportive environment. There’s a shared commitment to helping each child grow not only academically but also socially and emotionally. It’s inspiring to be part of a school where relationships and connections are at the heart of everything we do.