Compiled by Darlene Bowers
Welcome to the Ada Icon’s “Ada Teacher Feature.” Here we share thoughts and insights from local teachers who lift up and inspire our students. Let us lift up and inspire these educators as well. Today we meet Alayne Schrock.
“I teach to impact the lives of my students,” shares Alayne Schrock. From middle school math to middle school science to field trips and science fairs, Alayne Schrock is creating that impact each day at Ada Schools.
Alayne Schrock
What are you teaching this year?
I teach 7th and 8th grade science.
Tell us about your extracurricular activities, groups, clubs and sports you are involved with.
My extracurricular activities at school include being a member of the District Leadership Team, leading the 7th Grade Camp Willson field trip and organizing the local science fair.
Where did you attend school and college?
I graduated from Northridge High School in Middlebury, Indiana, and earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Middle Childhood Education from Bluffton University. Later I received my Master's of Education degree from Bluffton as well.
How long have you been a teacher?
I began my teaching career at Ada in 2004. I spent the first 10 years of my career teaching middle school math. This is my third year teaching middle school science.
Why are you a teacher?
I teach because I love to see students excel in what they thought they never could or would. I want to impact students in a positive way and make them feel like they are important and cared about. I teach to impact the lives of my students.
What motivates you?
My motivation comes knowing that I am on God's mission in the public school setting. When in my life will I ever be able to impact this many people in such a short amount of time?
What’s the best thing students can do for you?
The best thing that students can do is come in with a positive attitude, put forth effort, and work to the best of their ability. And don't forget: Bring your materials to class!
What’s the best thing parents and caregivers can do for you?
One of the best things parents can do is provide their children with educational support at home and make sure their child has the appropriate tools to succeed. As far as for teachers, don't just call or send an email when you're upset about something. We [teachers] would also like to hear about the good things that you [parents] see or hear from your child about school.
What makes Ada schools unique or different?
We have teachers at Ada who genuinely care for their students and want to see them succeed and become great community representatives in the future.
Tell us about your best or most memorable teaching moment?
Many of my memorable teaching moments come from projects students have done.
The ones that stick out are those groups or individuals who have gone above and beyond the expectations or have really been creative in their product or presentation.
Outside of the classroom, there are many memorable moments from field trips like Camp Willson and Washington, D.C., where I have been able to interact with students differently due to the environment. Some of these would include encouraging kids to "just try" the rock climbing wall and then them successfully making it to the top or experiencing something new with a student who hasn't done much travelling.
What excites, interests and captivates you inside the classroom?
I think relationship building is at the top of the list of what gets me excited about being in the classroom. I get to know my students pretty well and even "roast" them a bit. It's the fun interactions with students that keeps it light in the classroom.
What excites/interests/captivates you outside the classroom?
I am an active member of Lima Community Church of the Nazarene where my family attends. Our Bible study group leads a worship service once a month at an inner city retirement apartment complex where I play piano and lead music. My family and I spend much of the spring, summer and fall months camping. This past summer we spent three and one-half weeks in Colorado and Utah. We enjoy being outdoors, hiking and cooking over the campfire.
If you weren’t teaching what would you be doing?
If I wasn't teaching, I'd probably be involved in youth ministry in some way, shape, or form.
