Have you met… Reagan Morris?

We spoke with Reagan Morris (she/they) about her experiences in the Faculty of Education!

Tell us a bit about yourself.

Hi! My name is Reagan and I am a second-year Elementary Education student. I am hoping one day to be a guidance counselor and to focus on 2SLGBTQ+ youth. I am the faculty rep for both Student Council and General Faculties Council. I have been a volunteer this past year on the Education Students’ Association’s professional development committee. I am extremely excited to become a teacher and part of that is because of this Faculty!

What brought you to teacher education?

When I was in middle school I was having a very hard time. I was coming to terms with my sexuality, my home life was not good, and my mental health was plummeting. It did not seem like anyone saw me other than my teachers. They would show me kindness and remind me of my place in the world when no one else would. When I think about what got me through my youth it is undoubtedly my teachers. I feel called to teach middle school based on my experiences.

What brought you to the Faculty of Education?

I was shortlisted for the TD Scholarship and we got an email when we made the shortlist to apply to our dream schools and dream programs. Up until then I was enrolled in science at MacEwan University as I had chosen a practical major that I could pay my student debt with. I remembered how badly I wanted to be a teacher when I was younger and decided that was my dream program to apply to.

Tell us about some of your experiences in your program. What excites and inspires you? Are there challenges you've experienced?

My Community-Service Learning placement in first year really solidified my passion for teaching. I was placed at the Foote Theatre School and every Saturday I would spend two hours student-teaching for a theatre class. Watching my kids learn and seeing their excitement when things came together made me feel a sense of accomplishment unlike anything I had ever done before. I have also spent this past year volunteering for The Landing and it has reaffirmed my passion for working with 2SLGBTQ+ people. I am excited to get into a classroom and watch students learn and to help out with the GSA!

How are you feeling about your upcoming student teaching?

I am thrilled to get into the classroom! Student teaching is going to be wonderful and I am so excited to be challenged every day!

What are your hopes and dreams in your work with children and youth?

I hope that I will be able to support youth the same way I was supported. I do not know if I would be here today if it was not for my educators. I especially want to show up for queer youth and advocate for their needs.

What's your favourite lunch or snack to eat while studying?

Scooby Doo fruit snacks!

What's your favourite distraction?

Definitely Animal Crossing!