December 15, 2023
The College of Education and Human Development (CEHD)’s December 2023 outstanding graduate and banner bearer started her professional career not as an educator, but as a nurse. Kristin McGee completes a Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education with a concentration in Learning and Behavior Disorders and earned one of the highest honors bestowed to UofL graduates for her exceptional achievements.
McGee’s education journey, marked by resilience and dedication, has been anything but a straight line. She started her college experience without a clear direction, but eventually earned a bachelors of science in nursing from Indiana University Southeast. She went on to work as an RN in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Norton Children’s Hospital.
Feeling a pull in a different direction, McGee transitioned to become a paraprofessional in special education at Friends School of Louisville. This experience ignited her passion for education and led her to pursue a master's degree through UofL’s alternative certification program, designed for individuals without an education background to pursue a MAT degree.
McGee later learned that she had been struggling with undiagnosed ADHD for her entire educational journey. “I found out that I had ADHD when I was 30 years old,” said McGee. “Learning more about it and sensory processing has helped me understand my own mind much better, and understanding it helps me make the most of it.”
Her dedication to education and commitment to facing challenges head-on are evident. “Anyone who spends even the smallest amount of time in Kristin McGee’s classroom can easily see she cares deeply about each and every one of her students, and the effect her teaching has on their learning,” said Scott Patton, instructor in the Department of Special Education, Early Childhood, and Prevention Science. “Her caring affect is contagious, students want to see themselves and each other succeed, it is truly incredible and the high levels of learning in the room echo this. If you are fortunate enough to spend time there, you will find yourself wanting more of this loving community that Kristin has created.”
McGee is currently a lead teacher in a combined 4th and 5th-grade classroom at Friends School of Louisville, an inclusive, noncompetitive school focused on student centered, dynamic learning. Post-graduation, she plans to continue working at Friends School of Louisville as a resource teacher. She draws daily inspiration from her students. “I've come to understand that many students simply need someone to hear them, to empathize, and to help them overcome barriers to reach their full potential. This perspective extends beyond the classroom—imagine a world where we treat everyone with such respect and empathy, said McGee. “I consider it my job to be the person who is always willing to put myself in their shoes to help identify and overcome [communication] barriers.”
McGee spoke at the CEHD Honors and Awards ceremony on Thursday, December 14 and expressed deep gratitude for the support she received throughout her academic career.
"Good evening distinguished guests, faculty, families, and my fellow graduates.
I am beyond humbled to be here receiving this award. My heart is full of gratitude for the unwavering support of our professors, the dedication of my peers, and the enduring encouragement of my family.
The journey that has brought me to this moment has been a winding and unexpectedly enriching path, and I am privileged to represent the College of Education and Human Development alongside the incredible students who share a dedication to shaping the future of education.
Reflecting on my educational journey, I recall the initial challenges I faced, unaware of the undiagnosed ADHD that colored my entire school experience. Despite achieving good grades, my struggles were invisible to others. This underscores the ongoing need to expand our understanding of ADHD in females, a cause that we continue to champion.
My college journey began without a clear direction. After failing multiple classes my first year, I was determined to prove myself and prove that I was capable of success. The challenges I faced fueled my determination, eventually leading me to earn a Bachelor's in Nursing at Indiana University Southeast. I found myself working as an RN in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Norton Children’s Hospital—an experience that was both incredible and unbelievable.
After developing my career and experiencing and witnessing more life-changing moments and stories than I could ever imagine in a few short years, As life unfolded, I embarked on a new chapter—starting a family. I soon realized that as fulfilling as my job as an RN was, I was being drawn in another direction. Taking a leap of faith, I quit my job as a nurse and began working at my childrens’ school, Friends School of Louisville, as a paraprofessional in special education, assisting our students receiving the highest level of support. From there, my love for education and supporting these students grew exponentially.
Discovering the University of Louisville's alternative certification program for special education felt like fate. I was simply astounded that there was a program that would allow me to work my dream job while earning my master’s degree. Within a week of learning about this program, I had submitted my application and was awaiting an interview.
With unwavering determination, I navigated the nerve-wracking process, fueled by the promise I made to my students to confront my fear of public speaking. The Zoom interview was a test of my resolve, and the moment that I heard, "You're in," validated that I was on the right path. I cannot express how grateful I am that my passion and dedication was understood and appreciated.
As I moved through the program, I experienced course after course with dedicated professors who were immensely supportive, which I believe comes from that same place of passion for education. I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding instruction and collaboration of the faculty–without you, I wouldn’t have achieved this award of excellence. You have each embodied the very passion that drove me to this career in the first place.
Now, as the Lead Teacher in a 4th and 5th-grade combined class practicing full inclusion, I am witness to the incredible potential within students with learning and behavior disorders. I've come to understand that many students simply need someone to hear them, to empathize, and to help them overcome barriers to reach their full potential. This perspective extends beyond the classroom—imagine a world where we treat everyone with such respect and empathy.
In closing, I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who played a role in this incredible chapter. To my professors, especially Professor Scott Patton, your encouragement and support have been instrumental. To my fellow graduates, may the values and lessons learned here inspire positive change in the generations to come. To my family, particularly my husband, Michael, thank you for your unwavering support.
Congratulations, graduates, and here's to a future where our shared commitment to education continues to inspire positive change."
For individuals interested in a career in teaching, explore the alternative certification pathways offered through the CEHD by visiting our webpage.
About the College of Education and Human Development:
Founded in 1968, the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) is a vibrant community that prepares students for leadership in a variety of metropolitan settings including schools, public and private corporations, and governmental agencies.
CEHD embraces the University's mission to advance the intellectual, cultural, and economic development of our diverse communities and citizens. Our commitment to student success is unparalleled as we promote the highest levels of learning and social, emotional, and physical health and well-being for all children, individuals, and families.
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