My passion for teaching began when my little sister was born. With a nine-year age gap, I became her first teacher, helping her learn the ABCs, develop motor skills for writing, and translate sight objects from our national language, Tagalog, to English. This experience sparked a deep sense of care, nurturing, and love for children, igniting a passion for teaching in my heart.

Education Professor at Ashland University

tjewett@ashland.edu

(419)651-1296

Field Supervisor - Ashland University

epeterse@asgland.edu

440-213-3544

5th Grade Teacher

Cloverleaf Elementary School

mikaela.nagle@cloverleaflocal.org

330-635-2128

At the same time, I took on the role of my younger sister’s first teacher. With both of our parents working full-time, there was little time or access to early learning materials at home. But instead of seeing that as a setback, I saw an opportunity. I found creative ways to teach her the basics—phonics, ABCs, fine motor skills, sight words, counting, and number symbols. I would translate from our native language to our national language, and then to English, building bridges of understanding one word at a time. It was through these small, everyday moments that I realized: teaching is my calling. The classroom is where I belong.

My journey as both a struggling student and a self-made teacher has taught me that all students are capable of learning—each in their own time and way. I believe that making mistakes is not a sign of failure, but a powerful part of the learning process. I carry that belief into my teaching philosophy: that students don’t need to be perfect to be brilliant, they just need someone who believes in them, meets them where they are, and guides them forward.

I also understand that every behavior in the classroom tells a story. Behind each action is a student with emotions, experiences, and needs. This is why I believe in intentional teaching, grounded in empathy and open communication. By creating a safe, supportive environment where students feel seen and heard, I can help them discover the joy in learning—and the strength in their own voices.

This is my “why.” I teach because I was once that student. And now, I want to be the teacher I once needed.

In addition, I make it a priority to align my lessons with the Ohio Learning Standards. These standards provide a clear framework for what students should know and be able to do at each grade level. By using them to guide my planning, I ensure that my lessons are developmentally appropriate, content-rich, and goal-oriented. This alignment helps keep both my teaching and my students focused on meaningful learning outcomes.

Intervention Specialist, CALP

H. G. Blake Elementary School

bergerlo@medinabees.org

330-350-1372

I dedicate this achievement to my ever-loving and supportive husband, who has been my cheerleader and my rock. He believed in my potential and invested in me. I am also thankful to my family who have been supportive and praying for my success, despite the distance between. I will be forever grateful for this invaluable gift, an education that no one can take away from me.

I will always be thankful.

School Email: genelyn.longenecker@ku.edu

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genelyn-longenecker/