After working in technology within the financial industry and raising a family, Cara-Lynn O’Brien was ready to pursue a fulfilling career. She is now a graduate of Bank Street’s Childhood General and Special Education Residency Program and a 4th-grade special education teacher in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn.
Here is the story—in her own words—of her teacher residency experience at Bank Street.
Why I Chose Bank Street
When I decided to go back to school to become a teacher, I considered several schools and programs. I wanted a place that would help me navigate all of the questions that would inevitably come up while pursuing a new profession. I chose Bank Street’s teacher residency program because I wanted a program that would have me teaching as fast as possible. I am older than the average student and I didn’t want to spend any more time not being a teacher. The residency program provided that opportunity and so much more.
A Cohort of My Peers
The program is set up so a group of residents take their courses together. We shared our experiences, reflected on what worked and what needed work, and sharpened our skills—together. These people became my family, and we’ve stayed in contact. I think I will have these friends and colleagues for life.
Advisers Who Care So Much
Having support is the most important aspect of beginning a new career, and Bank Street has this in spades. I truly believe that the support I received through this program at Bank Street has helped me to be the very best teacher that I can be.
I was guided through the entire program. I had easy access to those in the know, which put my mind at ease—a quick email or text, and the answers would come.
My advisors seemed to be teaching wizards! I am not sure what word is right to describe them, but if you’ve met Kim McLeveighn and Jess Wontropski, then you know what I mean. Here’s an example: During my residency, I struggled to create my first lesson plan, which required me to list possible student reactions and responses. I felt ill-equipped to do this task. Kim sat with me pretending to be my student without acting like a child and walked me through possible reactions. It was incredibly helpful, and I often return to that experience when I am trying to figure out something new. My advisors are still in contact with me today.
Learning On Site in a Public School
During my residency placements in District 13, I received guidance and support from three mentor teachers, school administration, and staff at each school. Additionally, I had an advisor from the District 13 Superintendent’s office and access to all the resources provided by Bank Street. The level of support I experienced throughout the entire process was truly incredible.
The scholarship I received through this teacher residency program made attending Bank Street an affordable pathway to becoming a teacher. This program provided me with a comprehensive education that prepared me to address and work towards rectifying the inequities faced by students in low-income neighborhoods.
Together, We Can
One of the most meaningful things that I have learned at Bank Street is that together, we can. Bank Street has the most welcoming and embracing community. I had never been a part of a community of people all striving for the same goal, willing to lift each other up. The community is very relaxed and supportive. A teacher’s response is never “no”—it’s more like, “interesting idea, can you expand on that?” It has been an amazing experience to have so many collaborators ready to help me grow. The teachers are, without exception, the absolute best there are on this earth. I have found people who I believe will be with me for life, and I am so thankful to have found my place.