Meet the Graduate Teaching Fellows

Annie Cuddie, a dedicated Middle School Art teacher for grades 6th through 8th at Mankato Area Public Schools, is currently advancing her expertise in the Educational Leadership Master's Program. 

Annie's decision to continue the Graduate Teaching Fellowship program stems from her initial year's positive impact and the desire to provide consistent mentorship to her students. She prides herself on creating an inclusive environment where both students and colleagues feel comfortable sharing and expressing themselves. Her classroom has become a sanctuary for open communication and emotional support.

Annie's advice to new fellows emphasizes the importance of engaging with mentors, advocating for oneself, and the necessity of asking questions to foster personal and professional growth. Her journey is a testament to the profound influence a dedicated educator can have on their educational community.  

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Donovan Becker, a Social Studies Education graduate, currently teaches 9th Grade World History and 10th Grade American Studies at Mankato West. He is pursuing a Master's in Teaching and Learning with a History Specialization, drawn into the field by a lineage of educators in his family and a pivotal high school social studies teacher.

Donovan emphasizes the importance of communication and inquiry in his teaching journey, advising new educators to ask questions and seek guidance. He underscores the significance of building networks within the educational community, noting that relationships with fellow educators and staff greatly facilitate professional ease. 

For those considering a Graduate Teaching Fellowship, Donovan advocates for embracing the opportunity, highlighting the unparalleled support and career foundations it offers. His teaching philosophy centers on open dialogue and community integration, shaping his approach to education and mentorship. 

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Andrew Smith, with a background in History, is dedicated to educating students in grades 6-8 at Faribault as an English Language Learner teacher. He is currently advancing his expertise through a Master of Arts in Teaching. Andrew's decision to pursue teaching was driven by a desire to inspire and foster growth in young individuals.

He (Andrew) emphasizes the uniqueness of each teaching scenario and the importance of understanding student dynamics. Andrew views teaching as a challenging yet profoundly fulfilling career and encourages persistence in the face of adversity. He advocates for the Graduate Teaching Fellowship, highlighting it as an invaluable platform for gaining practical experience while benefiting from the program's extensive support network.

Andrew expresses gratitude for the guidance provided by his mentor teacher and the fellowship organizers, recognizing their roles as pivotal in his professional development. 

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Macy Pederson, a passionate First Grade teacher at Tri-City United Montgomery, is currently pursuing her Masters of Science in Reading program. Her decision to continue with the Graduate Teaching Fellowship program for a second year was largely influenced by the tremendous support and community she experienced during her first year.

Macy values the mentorship, resources, and connections she formed with fellow graduate students, all of which have been instrumental in her professional and personal growth. Reflecting on her inaugural year, Macy regards her acceptance and transparency about making mistakes as a significant accomplishment. She (Macy) has fostered a classroom culture where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, echoing her belief that "Mistakes mean you are learning."

Her advice to new teaching fellows is to embrace imperfection, seek guidance, and remember that their commitment and effort are the true markers of success. Macy's journey highlights the importance of support, self-compassion, and the continual pursuit of growth in the teaching profession.

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Ashlyn Rosenberg, dedicated educator teaching third-grade in Waseca, is furthering her commitment to education by pursuing a Master's Elementary Education.

Ashlyn’s journey into teaching was fueled by a passion to advocate for her students and to cultivate a nurturing, safe classroom environment. She (Ashlyn) underscores the significance of fostering positive individual relationships and a sense of community among the students.

Ashlyn advises aspiring teachers to embrace the profession with dedication and perseverance. She champions the Graduate Teaching Fellowship, lauding it as an exceptional opportunity that provides substantial support and enrichment for educators at the onset of their careers.

Ashlyn's educational philosophy revolves around creating an inclusive, supportive space conducive to learning and mutual respect. 

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Jessi Johnson teaches first grade at Tri-City United Le Center. She is currently enhancing her skill set by pursuing a Master's in Education Technology.

Jessi's trajectory into teaching was profoundly influenced by a familial legacy of educators, instilling in her a deep-seated commitment to nurturing young minds. Her dedication is driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of her students, mirroring the profound influence her family had on others.

Jessi emphasizes the importance of cherishing and reflecting on the triumphant moments in teaching, both personal and those of her students. She (Jessi) encourages aspiring educators to embrace the profession despite its challenges, highlighting the unparalleled fulfillment derived from witnessing student growth and being a pivotal figure in their lives.

Jessi advocates for the Graduate Teaching Fellowship, acknowledging its demands but also the robust support it offers. She believes in teaching with passion and finding joy in every classroom interaction, principles that guide her education approach. 

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Ashten Mahon currently teaches 8th-grade Geography and 7th-grade U.S. History at Waseca Public School District. She is furthering her professional development through a master's in Education Technology. 

Ashten's journey into teaching was inspired by her ambition to empower students, ensuring they recognize the significance of their voices and develop skills that extend beyond the classroom. She highlights the necessity of organization and meticulous record-keeping in the teaching profession.

Ashten advises future educators to embrace adaptability, decisiveness, and patience—traits essential for navigating the dynamic environment of education. 

She recommends the Graduate Teaching Fellowship for its invaluable learning opportunities and the support system it offers to new teachers.

Ashten's approach to education is characterized by her commitment to student empowerment and her strategic, thoughtful approach to teaching and learning. 

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Megan Marcinkevich is currently teaching third grade at Owatonna public schools while pursuing a graduate degree in Educational Technology.

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Shakira Swanson, a committed 5th-grade teacher at Faribault Public Schools, is furthering her educational journey in the Educational Technology Master's Program. Shakira's decision to continue her involvement in the Graduate Teaching Fellowship program was influenced by the robust support and sense of community fostered by the Department of Education.

Reflecting on her initial year, Shakira considers her integration of culturally responsive teaching strategies as a pivotal achievement, fostering a classroom environment that respects and celebrates each student's individuality and cultural background. She advises new teaching fellows to embrace challenges and leverage the available support to innovate and grow, both professionally and in their teaching methods.

Shakira's approach is a testament to her commitment to continuous improvement and her dedication to creating an inclusive and dynamic learning space. 

Meet All our teaching fellows!