JACKSON, Wyo. — In the heart of Jackson, Wyoming, the Teton Literacy Center (TLC) is a place of discovery and growth, thanks to dedicated educators like Karla Sanchez. As an AmeriCorps member, Karla’s role goes beyond teaching; it encompasses connecting with children and their families, fostering a community of learning, support and mutual respect.
Finding Joy in Connection
Karla’s passion for her work is evident in her daily interactions with the children.
“What I love most about my job is the opportunity to connect with children. Every day, I see them, play with them, help them learn and be with them,” she shares.
This constant engagement nurtures the children’s academic growth and emotional and social development, creating a holistic learning environment.
Celebrating Small Victories
One of Karla’s standout experiences involves a young student named Sebastian, affectionately known as Sebas. At the beginning of the school year, Sebas struggled to write his name. With persistent encouragement and practice, he gradually mastered the task. Karla reflects, “It was powerful to be there with him and practice with letters that were in his name. It was very interesting and very beautiful to see how he was growing in that way.” This achievement underscores the impact of personalized attention and patience, key elements in the early childhood education profession.
Motivated by Children’s Enthusiasm
The feedback Karla receives from her students fuels her dedication. She recalls a recent interaction: “I recently had a girl say to me: ‘I am excited to get up and come here to school.’ So to hear that from the children is my great motivation.” Such expressions of enthusiasm from the children validate the importance of creating a positive and stimulating learning environment that students look forward to each day.
Expanding Horizons in Social Work
Karla’s role at TLC has sparked a more profound interest in social work, especially within the Jackson community. “I started working here with the desire to learn and have more experience with social work focusing here in the Jackson community,” she explains. This experience has enriched her teaching practice and broadened her understanding of community dynamics and the crucial role of community support in early childhood education.
Aspiring to Serve Families Better
Looking ahead, Karla aims to enhance her skills in connecting with and supporting families. She is driven by a desire to use her experiences to serve families more effectively in her future social work career. Karla notes, “What I would like more than anything is knowing how to connect a little more with families — how to help them with resources. In any area, any family I will work with in the future, I’ll be able to serve them.” This aspiration underscores her commitment to making a lasting impact on the lives of children and their families.
Karla Sanchez’s journey as an AmeriCorps member and educator at the Teton Literacy Center is a powerful example of the profound difference that dedicated educators can make. Her story is a testament to the importance of early childhood education and its ripple effect on families and communities. By fostering a nurturing and supportive learning environment, Karla is helping to build a foundation for lifelong learning and success for her students.
To support the efforts of early childhood educators like Karla and learn how you can contribute, please visit Champions for Children.
