Meet Mrs. Yerkes, our PreK teacher!

Mrs. Yerkes - PreK

What made you want to become a teacher?
My dad’s whole family are teachers, but I never thought I would become a teacher. I actually wanted to be a child life specialist with cancer patients. I began my Masters in that, but it was just too emotional of a topic for me. I knew I liked teaching so I decided to try it.

As a teacher, being able to make a difference in a child’s life is what I love. I’m passionate about early intervention and getting kids the help they need sooner rather than later.  

Was there a teacher that inspired you, and why?
There were several. My second grade teacher made learning fun. I remember doing a lot of fun things in her classroom. There were also high school teachers that believed in and inspired me.  

What is something you like about teaching PreK?
I am interested in the social and emotional development that happens at this age. I love seeing their friendships start to form. 

What did you miss the most about teaching in person during the stay-at-home order?
The social aspect was not the same. My students are learning social skills like how to be kind to each other, take turns, and how to share. This was so much harder to teach virtually. 

What’s the best advice you’ve received about teaching?
As a teacher, you are always learning along with your students. Learn to experience things through their eyes and learn new things with them.

What are you most looking forward to at the start of the year? 
I am most excited to be back in the classroom and to utilize the new technology that I learned during shelter-in-place.

What do you like about St. John’s?
I love the relationships I have with the families. The parents become your friends and are so great and caring.