Kari Piekarski

Began at Teachwell:

 2016

Why did you choose this field?

My interest in education was sparked upon taking a job as an Educational Assistant for students with mild to moderate disabilities, and fell in love from there.

What or who most inspires you?

The students, both old and new, are who inspire me the most. The struggles they have endured, and obstacles they have overcome, each story leaving its mark on my heart. These stories have shaped who I am today, both personally and professionally.

Why Teachwell?

Working within the public school setting for the past 7 years, I was looking for a change. When exploring Teachwell, I noticed the vast opportunity for professional growth. Still in the beginning stages of my educational career, Teachwell, offered a variety of positions in which I was currently interested in, as well as positions available as my experience grows within the field of education.

What keeps you motivated?

The students are what keeps me motivated. Through the daily challenges they are faced with, whether it be in school, within their personal lives, relationships, or other hardships they may struggle with each day, it is their stories that remind me they need the best version of me each and everyday.

How do you hope to make a difference?

I hope to take my previous educational experiences and skills I have acquired in lesson instruction, classroom management, and building relationships, and apply them within my new teaching position here at Teachwell. Creating a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment, with quality instruction to maximize students' educational performance.

Goals for the future?

I have, and plan to continue, working on my Masters Degree within the field of Social Work and/or Administration.  

What is your background? Experience, degrees, skills, etc.?

Coming from I worked within Edina Public Schools as an Educational Assistant for about 4 years while completing my Bachelor of Science; Special Education K-12. I was then hired as a teacher, where I worked in both the resource and self-contained setting. I then moved to Sioux Falls, where I worked within the resource setting, as well as, working with students with behavioral challenges.

What was your favorite subject in school?

My favorite subject in school was Art. I found it relaxing, and a great stress reliever. It also allowed me to express my creativity in a variety of ways. 

People would be surprised to know that I . . .

I love to hunt and fish!