Newsroom
Michael Arrieta-Walden
October 03, 2011
M.A.T. ’10, third grade teacher, Tigard-Tualatin School District
Why do you love teaching?
I am currently teaching 28 wonderfully curious third graders. Both the students and I grow each day as we learn new skills in such a wide range of subjects. Many of my students are English language learners who enrich our classroom with their bilingual talents.
Why do you think is teaching an important profession?
A fundamental ideal of America is that education is opportunity. Providing an education for students regardless of their background, regardless of their means, is extremely vital. As a teacher I feel like I’m helping realize that ideal. I especially feel like immigrant children deserve that same opportunity. I want to make a difference for them.
What is your goal as an educator?
Now, armed with the best teaching practices, to be the fiercest, most passionate advocate for my students.
Can you describe a moment when you saw a light bulb go off for a child?
One in particular was a student who at fifth grade still had not learned to read. I spent weeks and weeks working with that child. Helping that child learn to read at that late of an age was hugely rewarding. I do think that’s changed his life forever.
Did you have a favorite class at Lewis & Clark?
Easy: Social, Historical, and Ethical Perspectives on Education (ED 550), taught by Zaher Wahab.
Learn more about becoming a teacher at Lewis & Clark.