The Rookie Teachers

In this episode, the rookie teachers talk about their first months leading the classroom, creating routines and working alongside paraprofessionals, as well as how their NIU experience prepared them to get here. Listen to hear the many lessons these young teachers have already learned!

Meet the rookie teachers, Olivia and Kyrsten! In this episode, we learn about the paths that led them to choose Northern Illinois University where they pursued degrees in education. They discuss their college experiences and why they choose to teach special education.  Filmed before their school year began, the girls dive into their summer preparations, expectations about the upcoming school year, classroom set up, and anxieties as they embark on their first year as teachers. 

Recorded and edited by Kyle Strain at the Northern Illinois University School of Music Recording Studio.

Welcome to the first episode of our new podcast, The Rookie Teachers! In this episode, you will meet the three Northern Illinois University graduate students who created the podcast. Staicy, Deann and Maeve explain the premise of the podcast, and get listeners excited to hear their first podcast with the Rookie teachers.  

The podcast will follow the first-year teaching journey of Kyrsten and Olivia, recent graduates of NIU. Each episode will discuss the real-life experiences of special education teachers. Follow along as these teachers learn to navigate the classroom and inspire future educators. 

 Recorded and edited by Kyle Strain at the Northern Illinois University School of Music Recording Studio.