Interview with a Future Teacher: Brooke Urrea

As the landscape of education continues to evolve, future educators like Brooke Urrea are stepping forward with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Brooke, a senior at Sam Houston State University (SHSU) in Huntsville, Texas, is studying Early Childhood through 6th Grade Education and is deeply invested in the future of education, particularly in how virtual learning is transforming classrooms and breaking barriers. Brooke is interested in teaching 1st or 2nd grade, where her passion for teaching first emerged. However, her student teaching has been teaching math in 6th grade and she has developed a soft spot for that too. She explained that “the want to help others and spread knowledge continues to grow [her] love, passion, and commitment for teaching.” 

What Does the Future of Education Look Like?

Brooke envisions a future where virtual learning plays a significant role in complementing traditional in-person education. She predicts that in the next decade, institutions will increasingly embrace virtual platforms, blending them with face-to-face instruction to enhance learning outcomes. Technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), stands out as a game-changer. Brooke sees AI as a tool that can tailor instruction to meet the diverse needs of students, paving the way for more personalized and equitable education.

Virtual education, according to Brooke, holds the potential to address critical challenges like the teacher shortage and educational inequity. By enabling teachers to reach students across the country and offering flexibility in scheduling, virtual teaching can ease the burdens of traditional classroom management. Moreover, it ensures that learners in underserved areas gain access to high-quality instruction and resources that might otherwise be out of reach.

Companies like Proximity Learning are attempting to bridge these gaps by providing virtual teachers for classrooms across the country. By providing these certified teachers, PLI supports future educators by holding space for new pedagogy and keeping learners on track. 

How Are We Preparing New Teachers for the Virtual Classroom?

Through her teacher preparation program at SHSU, Brooke has been equipped with valuable tools and certifications to excel in virtual environments. She highlighted becoming a Google Certified Educator after mastering the suite of Google applications like Google Classroom, Google Meet, and Google Forms. Her experience extends to platforms like Schoology, Blooket, and ST Math, which reinforce interactive learning.

For Brooke, the key to effective online teaching lies in maintaining student engagement. She emphasizes the importance of selecting tools that are not only content-appropriate but also captivating. As she continues her student teaching practicum, she recognizes the necessity of honing skills that make virtual instruction both meaningful and impactful.

What are some Excitements and Concerns About Virtual Education?

Brooke's enthusiasm for virtual education stems from its vast potential to connect educators and students nationwide. She explained, “Something that interests me the most about the idea of teaching virtually is the access to a multitude of resources to use and share.” The ability to share resources like Nearpod or worksheets and learn alongside diverse groups would help increase equity. However, she acknowledges challenges like the lack of face-to-face interaction, potential distractions in home environments, and technical difficulties. Despite these concerns, she believes that exposure to virtual teaching will help her build confidence and competence in leveraging technology for her future classroom.

Proximity Learning facilitates connection through face-to-face virtual teaching every day and facilitator in each classroom, exploring the idea that virtual learning doesn’t have to be limited and frustrating. 

How Can New Teachers Advance Access and Opportunities?

When asked about the broader implications of virtual education, Brooke explained that it could revolutionize access for students in underserved areas. Virtual platforms enable learners in remote or resource-limited locations to receive a quality education, bridging gaps that geography and socioeconomic factors often create.

Brooke also sees the relationship between education and technology as one that will continue to deepen and expand. She explained that “The relationship between technology and education is evolving expeditiously. The more interactive and informative technology resources there are, the more information students are gaining as they learn.” She advocates for incorporating Artificial Intelligence into teacher training, citing its ability to streamline instruction and provide innovative solutions to educational challenges.

AI and virtual education will come hand in hand with the new era of teaching as young teachers open their pedagogy to artificial intelligence for grading, instruction, and active learning. These changes will serve students in an increasingly digital world.

 What is the Vision for the Future of Education?

Brooke's forward-thinking ideas and dedication to education exemplify the optimism and drive of the next generation of teachers. As she prepares to enter the workforce, her insights remind us of the importance of embracing technology to create a more inclusive, equitable, and effective education system.

At Proximity Learning, we celebrate educators like Brooke who are committed to shaping the future of education. Their passion and preparedness inspire us to continue providing innovative virtual learning solutions that empower teachers and students alike.

How are Upcoming Teachers Combating the Teacher Shortage?

New teachers, like Brooke Urrea, are the driving force behind addressing the ongoing teacher shortage. With fresh perspectives, innovative approaches, and a deep understanding of technology, these educators are stepping into classrooms ready to redefine traditional teaching methods. They bring enthusiasm and adaptability, leveraging tools like virtual learning and AI to create engaging, student-centered environments. By blending creativity with the latest advancements in education, new teachers are uniquely positioned to bridge gaps in learning and inspire the next generation of students, even in the face of challenges.

Struggling to find a young, innovative educator to fill your classroom gaps? Partner with Proximity Learning to ensure your students have access to certified, passionate teachers delivering live virtual instruction every day. Let us help you bridge the teacher shortage with the same forward-thinking solutions and commitment to equity that educators like Brooke represent. Together, we can ensure every student has access to the quality education they deserve. Contact us today to explore how Proximity Learning can support your district!