We learn more by looking for the answer to a question and not finding it than we do from learning the answer itself.      

Lloyd Alexander

 

Welcome!  I am Lynn Donihe, and I will complete my Master of Arts in Teaching from Hollins University in May 2021.  I will be seeking an endorsement in Secondary English, grades 6-12.  My road to Hollins was long: I graduated from Penn State in 1988 with a B.S. in Geography and began a career as a County Planner and Zoning Administrator.  I left local government planning in 1994 to raise my children and became active volunteering and serving in the PTAs at their elementary, middle, and high schools.  As my youngest approached his high school graduation, I made the decision to return to the classroom as a student, and, next fall, I will be leading my own classroom at Lucy Addison Middle School.  When I am not in school, I can usually be found working on mosaics, quilting and stitching, kayaking, or attempting to read through my ever-growing stacks of books.

My passion for learning was ignited by my father, who encouraged a love of inquiry and discovery and sought opportunities for hands-on experiences.  He taught me to question, to look deeper, and to not believe the first thing I read about anything.  He taught me the importance of thinking for myself and being able to make decisions based on what I know and believe and not just what I have been told by someone else.  He taught me that everyone has a story.

For students to embrace learning, they need to understand why what they are being asked to do in the classroom is relevant to them.  To create and discover new thoughts, students need to feel safe and supported in their classroom, assured that they can make mistakes without being ridiculed. They need time and practice to learn skills and build relationships.

I have learned from my time at Hollins that I want to teach and stay in the classroom for as long as I am able.  I want to work alongside students, helping them recognize their strengths, potential, and value and helping them develop the skills they need to succeed not only in English, but in life.  I want to ensure that my students can express themselves and think critically about the world around them.  I want them to recognize that multiple perspectives and interpretations exist that may be different from their own.  I want students to have the tools they need to tell their stories.

You can read more about my teaching philosophy here.

You can see my resume here.