To hire a teacher when the second semester rolls around is a challenge to both administrators and the teacher that takes over. Luckily for our school, the newest addition to UMA’s staff has taken to her position with ease. New math instructor, Ms. Sarah Wood may be young, but her adaptability has taken her to new heights within the school where she is navigating the new culture. So what brought her here to UMA?
Iit all began is with Ms. Wood’s childhood, where she had dreamed of being a teacher for years. “Ever since I was a child, I knew teaching was what I wanted to do.” Mrs. Wood said.
Having attended Weber State University and Western Governors’ University, Ms. Wood earned her “Associate’s degree at Weber State,” and her “Bachelor’s degree at Western Governors.” With her teaching degree in hand, she sets out on her teaching journey.
The first stop in her career was a Salt Lake City private school where Ms. Wood taught English to international students as their second language. “I have also taught music, specifically the harp, for two years.” Mrs. Wood said about her previous teaching experiences. After two years on the job, she decided to move on and look elsewhere.
After conducting some interviews at various schools around the area, Ms. Wood comes across UMA. “I loved UMA’s values and culture,” Mrs. Wood said. “[UMA] had a mid-year job opening, which was exactly what I was looking for.” Once finishing the process, Ms. Wood was hired to fill in for the retirement of Mrs. Nielsen as the junior high’s math teacher.
Now being halfway through her first term, Ms. Wood can say that she had adjusted well to the school’s lifestyle, without too much difficulty. Currently, her only issue is, “…currently learning to navigate the teacher computer programs, specifically linking Aspire and Canvas.”
Both administration and cadets are excited for the prospects Ms. Wood will bring, as it’s apparent teaching is her passion. Ms. Wood said, “I love helping people and teaching lifelong skills.”
