The Gifford Youth Achievement Center’s (GYAC) Afterschool Program made its highly anticipated return on August 10, 2023, after concluding another successful summer camp. Students, teachers, and staff were eager to begin the new school year with excitement for all of the upcoming activities and events. To begin the year, GYAC proudly added new teachers to its family and would love to introduce you to one of them: Mrs. Strowbridge.
Get to know Mrs. Strowbridge better by reading the brief Q&A below:
Q: When did you start working at GYAC?
A: “I started working at GYAC two years ago but decided to take a break” shortly after “to become more comfortable with teaching kindergarten students.” After gaining more experience, she returned for the first day of school on August 10, 2023.
Q: What grade level do you teach and why?
A: “Kindergarten. I’ve always wanted to become a kindergarten teacher. I love working with younger kids. At that age, they are able to absorb so much. It’s fun. I don’t have to be so serious. I can act silly, and they love it.”
Q: How have your life experiences prepared you to be a teacher for GYAC?
A: Prior to taking this position, “I worked for Head Start – Economic Opportunities Council of Indian River County for eight years, teaching VPK. I was exposed to families from diverse backgrounds, including those suffering from poverty.” At GYAC, you experience people from different backgrounds and “have the opportunity to communicate with and support them on all levels.”
Q: What are you most proud of?
A: “Becoming a teacher. I struggled in college and decided to take a break. During that break, I got married and had a baby. I thought it would be impossible to go back to school while taking care of a baby.” Mrs. Strowbridge thanks God for her friends, husband, and other supporters who helped her when she decided to go back to school. With their support, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.
Q: What’s the most unique thing you’ve ever done?
A: “Going on an airplane” for the first time this year. Mrs. Strowbridge is afraid of heights, so being on an airplane was a big accomplishment for her.
GYAC is happy to have Mrs. Strowbridge as a new teacher and looks forward to an eventful year. Be sure to follow us on social media to receive the latest updates about our programs.
