Second-, Third-Grade Teachers Talk Love of Education

SECOND GRADE

Traci McCall

For Traci McCall, a book sale could arguably be one of the deciding factors as to why she wanted to be an elementary school teacher.

"I had always wanted to be a teacher," McCall said. "When I was young, I loved to play school. I remember when the elementary school would have a book sale in the summer. There were teacher books, student books, and library books you could buy for just a few centers. I was especially excited about the teacher books with the answers."

McCall grew up in Williamsburg and graduated from WHS in 1988. She attended Lock Haven University where she earned a Bachelor of science in elementary education. She got her first teaching position with the district in 1999.

"I've had lots of great teachers through my years at Williamsburg. My second grade teacher Ms. Imler and my high school teacher Mr. Jeff Imler were two of my most memorable," McCall said.

Williamsburg holds quite a special place in McCall's heart.

"Williamsburg has always been special to me," McCall said. "It is where I lived throughout my childhood and adult life to this day. I have so many memories here with family and friends, and Williamsburg is such a close-knit community."

McCall enjoys getting to know her students and strives to help them be successful.

"My philosophy of education is that all children deserve an educational environment where they can be successful," McCall said. "It is important to provide the tools necessary for all students to reach their full potential."

Jody Kensinger

Jody Kensinger loved playing school when she was young and having five younger siblings did not hurt matters.

"I have always enjoyed kids and have done babysitting and helped in my church with children's church," Kensinger said.

Kensinger graduated from Central High School in 1988 and then went to Messiah College with a Bachelor of science in elementary education in 1992. Kensinger began teaching in 2013. Along with her husband Denny, Kensinger has a son and two daughters, two granddaughters and twin granddaughters on the way.

For special teachers in her life, Kensinger credits two teachers who were a husband and wife – Mr. and Mrs. Davis, her sixth and first grade teachers, respectively.

There are many parts of the job that Kensinger enjoys, including her colleagues and the students.

"I love getting to know my students and seeing them learn and grown and discover more about themselves," Kensinger said. "I believe all children are unique and special 'little people.' I think it is my job to care for them and provide a stimulating educational environment in the classroom where they can grown to their fullest potential."

Kensinger loves the small district of Williamsburg and the close-knit community.

"I enjoy all the history the town has to offer," Kensinger said. "I also like all the quaint places the town has to visit. I have many fond memories of visiting my grandma and walking to the Big Spring to feed the fish."

THIRD GRADE

Christina Brown

One constant in Williamsburg Elementary School has been Mrs. Christina Brown. Brown is an integral part of the district and of the third grade classrooms. Brown was born and raised in Williamsburg and after graduating from WHS in 1984, her studies took her to the Lancaster-area of the state where she attended Millersville University. After receiving her degree, Brown returned to Williamsburg to "live, marry and raise my two sons."

Education wasn't the first choice for Brown.

"When I started college, I had plans to become a marine biologist," Brown said. "What I learned at Millersville is that teaching is in my blood. In my sophomore year, I changed my major and started the path that has led me here. Through teaching, I can still share my love and appreciation of science with my students.

"Science has always been an important part of my life. I treasure the opportunity to guide children as they learn to appreciate and care for the world around them," Brown said.

Brown's maternal grandparents were both educators in the Williamsburg Community School District. Her grandfather Williams Rhodes worked as a high school teacher, coach and principal. He finished his career in Harrisburg, working for the Department of Education. Her grandmother Lenore was a third grade teacher.

"I began teaching third grade ten years after she retired," Brown said. "They were both great teachers who guided and influenced my life."

Brown began teaching at Williamsburg Elementary in 1988, and believes Williamsburg is a wonderful place to call home.

"I have been a part of this community for 57 years and a part of the district for 35 years," Brown said. "This is such a special place to live, work and go to school. In my opinion, third graders are the perfect age. And since this is my 35th year teaching them, it is only my perspective. They are eager learners who are becoming more responsible and independent. They have a unique perspective of the world and are ready to take on new challenges. I can't think of a better career, discovering and learning with 8- and 9-year-olds all day."