Meet Mrs. Chelsea Fraser - 4th Grade Math and Science Teacher at North Elementary School; Hand-Lettering and Macrame Artist at Fiber + Pen
On Thursday, a photographer visited North Elementary School for an opportunity for some stock photos for the school district publications. She was able to get some unique photo ops in Mrs. Fraser's classroom: the teacher was using technology and online tools to deliver the math content, students were using dry-erase markers to write on their desks to solve math problems, and the teacher was making her way around the classroom, getting students' attention with theatrical intonation and moves. Mrs. Fraser explained: "If I have to make a fool out of myself to get them to understand the content, then that is what I will do". Mrs. Fraser talked about the importance of students' readiness to learn, and said that before we can teach, we need to set the stage to engage. "We are teaching hard stuff", she said, "and getting students to where they can understand it is the fun part".
Mrs. Fraser joined North Elementary school as a first grade teacher, and this is her second year in 4th grade. When attending University of Central Florida, Mrs. Fraser majored in radio-television, but quickly realized that this was not something that she enjoyed. She had an opportunity to lead a cheer leading group as part of an after-school program, and she was hooked. She switched her major at UCF to elementary education, and became a teacher in 2016.
While teaching is not for everyone, Mrs. Fraser feels like her calling is definitely with students. "They make me happy", she said. She also talked about the importance of the relationships that she has with her students. Mrs. Fraser explained that her unique approach to school and education stems from a conference that she attended a few years ago. She said that one thing that resonated with her was the approach to teaching that emphasized the idea that you are a school teacher; not just a classroom teacher. This is why Mrs. Fraser looks for opportunities to be involved with students in and outside the classroom. "It is not just a job, but your life", Mrs. Fraser said. I call parents. I go to games. Talking about her relationships with students, Mrs. Fraser stated that we have to put our heart and soul into it because there is so much at stake. We teach manners, and how to talk politely. How to be accountable for our talk - not just academically, but even just in our conversations with others.
Mrs. Fraser reflected on her goals and aspirations in education and shared that she has definitely found her niche in teaching math, but she is also very interested in the mental health aspect of education. She recognizes the needs that students have when they come to school, and emphasized that they need to have a safe place - a location or a person, to go to. Mrs. Fraser is trying to give her students just that. A safe and engaging classroom where students want to be.
Outside her work at North Elementary School, Mrs. Fraser is a hand-lettering and macrame artist. She stated that she has always been a doodler; a visual learner and someone who has to write things out. Her friends took a notice of Mrs. Fraser's unique style of handwriting, and encouraged her to do some writing for them. Initially, Mrs. Fraser wrote greetings on Christmas cards, invitations, and more.
Ms. Fraser concluded her interview with a special message for her students' families. "I am grateful that I get to spend my days with your children. I hope that I have played my part in helping students to become independent, learning to advocate for themselves, and building their confidence". She added: " Thank you for letting me be on your team - because that is what we are".
Tuuli Robinson
Educator and Lifelong Learner
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