Natalia Reyes-Perez - St. John's High School

Meet Natalia Reyes-Perez. She is in twelfth Grade at St. John’s High School. Reyes-Perez is currently interning at Angel Oak Primary School in Josephine Routh’s first grade class. 

Getting to Know You

What inspired you to want to become a teacher?

What inspired me to become a teacher is numerous reasons, but one of the most important is that I am passionate about helping others learn and grow. I enjoy creating an environment where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential. 

Do you remember a specific teacher or classroom moment that helped shape your decision to pursue teaching? Please describe it.

I remember a time in eighth grade when my math teacher, Mrs. Hutner, noticed I was frustrated after getting a low quiz score. Instead of just handing it back, she stayed after class with me and walked through each mistake step by step. She didn’t make me feel embarrassed. Instead, she said, “You’re getting it, you just need someone to slow it down.” That small act of patience made me feel seen and capable. It was the first time I realized how much a teacher’s support can change a student’s confidence, and it planted the idea that I wanted to do the same for others someday.

What subject or grade level do you hope to teach in the future, and why? 

I plan to teach first and second grade because I love working with students at an age when they are curious, excited, and rapidly developing their skills. These grades form a foundation for various skills, including reading, writing, problem-solving, and building confidence as learners. I enjoy the energy young children bring to the classroom and how quickly they celebrate small successes. I also like creating a warm, structured environment where they feel safe to try new things and learn from mistakes.

Classroom Experience

What has been the most meaningful part of your internship experience so far?

The most meaningful part of my internship experience has been how the students seemed to enjoy having me there, whether we were reading together, practicing math, or participating in group activities. Seeing their excitement and knowing they felt comfortable with me made the experience really special and showed me how rewarding it is to be part of a first-grade classroom.

What is one thing you’ve learned during your internship that surprised or inspired you?

One thing that surprised me about Mrs. Routh’s first-grade classroom at Angel Oak was the level of independence the students demonstrated. I expected first graders to need help with almost everything, but many of them were able to follow the routine, complete their work, and help each other without constant guidance. It was surprising and impressive to see how responsible and confident they were at such a young age, which showed me the effectiveness of a consistent routine and supportive classroom environment.

How has working with students changed or strengthened your desire to become a teacher?

Being in the classroom and seeing the students’ excitement, curiosity, and growth firsthand showed me how much of an impact a teacher can have. Helping students understand a new concept, watching them gain confidence, and being part of their daily routines was incredibly rewarding. It strengthened my desire to create a positive and supportive environment where children feel safe to learn, explore, and thrive.

Looking Ahead

What are your plans after high school (college, major, career goals)?

 After high school, I plan to continue pursuing my goal of becoming a teacher by attending Trident Technical College. There, I aim to complete courses and training that will prepare me for a career in education, with a focus on strategies for working with young students. I hope to gain hands-on experience through classroom practice and internships, enabling me to develop the skills and confidence necessary to be an effective and supportive teacher.

How do you hope to make a difference as a future educator?

As a future educator, I hope to make a difference by creating a classroom where every student feels valued, supported, and encouraged to do their best. I want to help students build confidence in their abilities and develop a love for learning that lasts beyond the classroom. By being patient, understanding, and enthusiastic, I hope to inspire curiosity and resilience, showing students that mistakes are part of learning. Ultimately, I want to make a positive impact on their growth, both academically and personally, so they feel capable and motivated to reach their full potential.

In your own words, why is teaching important?

Teaching is important because it helps shape the future by giving students the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to succeed. Teachers do more than just share facts. They guide, encourage, and support students as they learn and grow. A good teacher can inspire curiosity, build self-esteem, and help students discover their own capabilities. Teaching matters because it lays the foundation for lifelong learning, helping students become responsible, capable, and thoughtful individuals.