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February Newsletter
Rural Teacher Highlight:
Holly Geisler
Holly Geisler grew up in Charleston, Illinois and graduated from EIU in 2023. She began her first full-time teaching job at Neoga Junior High School. She teaches 6th, 7th, and 8th grade math. The summer between graduating and starting her position at Neoga, Holly got married to her husband Ben! She is still getting used to being called Mrs. Geisler instead of Miss Higgins!
Holly stated that she has always known that she wanted to become a teacher. Attending EIU and becoming involved in the Rural Teacher Corps further proved that this was the career path for her. The opportunity to tour rural schools in the area, connect with other rural teachers and administrators, and spend more time in the classroom showed her how much she loves teaching and how much she desired to positively impact her students and the schools she works in. I feel that I can make the greatest impact in a smaller, rural community.
Holly says the best part of teaching in a rural school is how much the school cares about the community. The school focuses on supporting each other and the students. Because the school is so small, she is able to really get to know her students and their families. This environment has really allowed her to become a better teacher.
Eventually, Holly would like to receive her masters degree, though she is not certain what she wants to get her degree in. Beyond that, she wants to focus on becoming the best teacher that she possibly can by staying connected to groups like the New Teacher Corps and participating in professional development opportunities.
"Thank you for highlighting me for the newsletter. I am forever grateful for the Rural School Initiative and the opportunities it has provided me with!"
-Holly Geister
The EIU Rural School Initiative would like to share our thanks to Holly Geister for all the service she devoted to the Rural School Initiative. We are so grateful for you and we are excited to see how far you go!
EmpowerED: SLD Conference
Are you interesting in learning more about dyslexia, math and writing interventions, SLD resources, and more? Then attend the SLDSP conference on March 18th and 19th in Effingham IL! More information on the two flyers below.
To register please use the link below:
