Kristen Aanerud-Smith, a dedicated and passionate fifth-grade science teacher at Davenport Elementary School, is this week’s A+ Teacher. Smith’s unique teaching style and inspiring journey from marine biologist to educator has made a significant impact on her students and the community.
Smith began her career in marine biology, working at Sea World and The Florida Aquarium for 16 years. Her passion for marine life was ignited by receiving a book about sharks from her father on her tenth birthday. From that moment on, she knew she wanted to pursue a career in marine biology. However, after realizing that she wanted to share her knowledge with others and make a difference in their lives, she decided to become a teacher.
In her classroom, Smith shares pictures of her previous work in marine biology to inspire her students and expose them to unique experiences. She uses hands-on activities such as watching caterpillars transform into butterflies and caring for a vegetable and herb garden to engage students in learning. The hydro garden in her classroom was funded through grants that Smith acquired, drawing on her grant writing skills from her previous career.
By merging her knowledge from both marine biology and teaching, Smith aims to provide her students with valuable hands-on learning experiences that go beyond traditional classroom lessons. Her ultimate goal is for her students to strive for their best, be happy, positive, and carry those lessons outside of the classroom into the real world.
If you know an exceptional teacher like Kristen Aanerud-Smith, you can nominate them to be the next A+ Teacher recognized for their dedication and impact on students’ lives.
Kristen Aanerud-Smith started out as a marine biologist but switched careers after realizing that she wanted to share knowledge with others while making a difference in their lives. She is now an exceptional fifth-grade science teacher at Davenport Elementary School who incorporates hands-on activities such as growing vegetables into classrooms.
Smith’s passion for marine life was sparked by receiving a book about sharks from his father on his tenth birthday. He knew he wanted to pursue this field further after seeing it firsthand.
To inspire his students and expose them to new experiences, Smith shares pictures of his previous work as a marine biologist in the classroom.
In addition to using traditional methods of teaching science concepts like conducting experiments or analyzing data sets during class discussions or lectures,
Smith also incorporates hands-on activities such as watching caterpillars turn into butterflies or taking care of plants in hydroponic gardens inside the school building.
Throughout his career, he has been awarded numerous grants which have allowed him to bring innovative ideas into the classroom setting.
Throughout his time at Davenport Elementary School, he has been recognized as one of the top teachers by parents who appreciate how well he engages with children while making learning fun.
