Amy Burling

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College attended: I attended Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri for my undergraduate and master’s degrees.

Education: I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in May of 1998. Immediately following, I began my studies in special education and working towards a Master’s degree. I graduated in August of 1999 after completing a yearlong internship in St. Louis and a small action research project. Since that time, I have taken several continuing education classes in literacy and student motivation. This year I am working with a cohort of local teachers on completing the process to become a National Board Certified Teacher. More information on the process can be found at www.nbpts.org .

What are you certified to teach? I am highly qualified to teach students with special needs at the primary, middle and high school levels. Additionally, I am highly qualified to teacher middle level reading/language arts.

Extra curricular activities (coaching and scholastic): Student government is an area that I was active in throughout middle and high school. Thus, I have served at the co-sponsor for the ICMS Student Council since the 2004-2005 school year. Student government is involved in almost every major event at ICMS and offers me numerous opportunities to work with students, families and community organizations. I particularly enjoy our service projects done twice a year-Salvation Army Secret Santa for DeKalb County families in need and NICE Center Walk for our more local families. Giving back to the community is a truly rewarding experience!

Classes you teach: Since the 2005-2006 school year, I have had the opportunity to teach reading in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. My role is as the Reading Support Teacher and allows me the opportunity to work with students and families on numerous levels.

A little bit of information about yourself (family, hobbies, interests): I grew up in a small town in Illinois, Blandinsville, very similar to Waterman and Shabbona. I also attended Northwestern Elementary and Junior/Senior High School and had the same teachers for junior and senior high school (actually it was just one long hallway). When I first interviewed at the middle school, I truly felt as if I were at home. I have one younger sister who lives in Phoenix, Arizona and provides me with free housing during our wonderful spring and summer breaks! My parents still live in Blandinsville and can be found farming or out on the campaign trail for various local republican leaders. During my free time I enjoy watching movies at the theatre, especially if they demonstrate Oscar potential. Additionally, I like reading new literature, cooking, and making jewelry. During breaks from school, I am typically traveling to new locations. This year has included Arizona and the East coast (New York City and Baltimore).

What do you enjoy about teaching? Teaching is an experience similar to no other field. It offers you the opportunity to inspire and be inspired each day. The smiling faces, the look of wonderment, and even the puzzled appearance of my middle school students cause me to look forward to each morning with a renewed sense of motivation and help me prioritize my day.

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