Author: Contributed by Emma Gehrman

Hi there! I’m Emma, but I’m probably better-known as “Ms. Gehrman.” I first caught “the teaching bug” at my very first high school job working as a youth swim instructor at the local YMCA. Throughout my undergraduate study, I always sought the opportunity to volunteer or work with elementary students — perhaps because these were some of the most powerful moments in my life growing up. After completing my Master’s program in Early Childhood Education & Early Childhood Special Education, I explored teaching in a variety of contexts and educational settings — from teaching at a preschool outside Boston, to working as a developmental specialist providing services to young children and their families around the San Francisco Bay Area. A foundational pillar of my teaching practice is my firm belief in the importance of developing authentic, supportive, and trusting relationships with each of my students. Each year, I strive to create a sense of community amongst the little learners that enter my classroom, and extend that feeling to their families and caregivers, who I view as critical members of the teaching team. Three years ago I started teaching kindergarten at a neighborhood public school for a district outside of SF. Through my work as a member of this vibrant, dedicated, and caring community of teachers, young learners, and their families, I have truly come to appreciate the power of collaboration and how teaching is a never ending learning process — something I wish to share with other educators, like you!