Hi, my name is Krista McKnight. I grew up on a cattle ranch south east of Walsh, Alberta. After high school I decided I wanted to explore areas other than my own stomping grounds. So I continued my post secondary education in British Columbia, at the College of the Rockies while playing for the Avalanche Women’s Volleyball team.
In my first year, I studied kinesiology because I felt the importance of physical movement in my life and saw where it was lacking in close family members. While playing volleyball and taking the kinesiology program I had several opportunities to work with young athletes and children. Through these experiences, something in me truly lit up. I realized how powerful it is to positively influence young people and potentially change the trajectory of their lives. Unlike many who enter teaching because they were inspired by a particular teacher, my passion came from a different place. While I had many great teachers, none made me think, “This is what I want to do.” Instead, my inspiration grew from my own experiences working with children and seeing their growth. This passion led me to apply to the East Kootenay Teacher Education Program. I am now in my final 10-week practicum with a Grade 3/4 class, following previous practicums in Grade 1/2 and Grade 6 classrooms.
In my classroom experience, I have found that successful and positive learning environments are built on strong relationships. I believe that classrooms thrive when meaningful connections are established between teachers and students. As an educator, it is my responsibility to create a space where students feel safe, valued, and able to trust me as I guide them through their learning.
I also believe that differentiation is essential in creating classroom that supports and challenges students. During my practicum I worked with students with a wide range of needs. These experiences required me to design lessons and environments that allowed every student to participate fully, contributing to a supportive and caring classroom community.
