Small Towns and Second Grade: Kaitlyn’s Story
Kaitlyn’s path to teaching began long before she entered her own classroom. “I was raised in a small town in Idaho,” she explains, “surrounded by a family of hardworking farmers and influential educators.” Teaching showed up early in her life—whether she was “playing teacher-student games at recess, helping others in 4-H, or working with preschoolers at church.” After high school, she knew she wanted to teach. She attended Boise Bible College to earn her degree, but still need certification which she earned through American Board. Now, she knows that being a second grade teacher in her hometown is right where she’s meant to be.
Inspired by a Family of Educators
Teaching is truly in Kaitlyn’s DNA. “My granny, grandma, grandpa, dad, and aunt were all educators,” she shares. Their guidance shaped her life, and their impact set the standard she hopes to continue. “They have also been some of the most impactful, positive people in my life. I wanted the opportunity to represent my family well by continuing to teach in our small town.”
A Second Grade Teacher at Shadow Butte Elementary
Kaitlyn has taught at Shadow Butte Elementary for almost four years, and being a second grade teacher is her perfect fit. “It is such a sweet spot in their lives. They’re eager to learn and still enjoy school while gaining independence. She teaches math, ELA, science, history, and more, giving her a front-row seat to her students’ growth.
One of her favorite memories comes from her first year. A young girl struggled in multiple subjects and felt unsure of herself. Together, they worked through foundational skills and built her confidence day by day. “She flourished and her personality grew so beautifully,” Kaitlyn recalls. Now, as that student prepares to graduate from elementary school, Kaitlyn still gets daily hugs and watches her shine—performing in concerts she once sat out of, taking on creative projects, and forming new friendships.
Finding the Right Certification Path
Kaitlyn learned about the American Board program from people she trusted. “American Board was presented to me by my college department head as well as my mentor when I was student teaching.” Its strong reputation mattered, especially close to home. “The program is highly regarded in Idaho,” she says, and the ability to certify across multiple grade levels made it even more useful.
She found the structure easy to navigate. “The program was intuitive to use as far as any studying, testing, etc.” Additionally, the flexibility allowed her to shape her study plan. She also relied on the ABCTE community for support. Her advice for new candidates is simple and direct: “Start now!”
Her study strategy was both disciplined and effective. “My study approach was to go to local coffee shops with my headphones and laptop ready to spend around four hours per day studying.” She created notecards after every practice quiz and gathered tips from previous test-takers. After about two weeks of focused study, she was ready.
Launch Your Teaching Career
Many universities offer teaching degrees that still require a separate certification route, and when that’s the case, American Board is here to help. Nearly 5,000 Idaho teachers have launched their careers with American Board. The online certification program gives future educators a flexible, affordable way to enter the classroom with confidence. Now it’s your turn to join our growing community of influential alumni and begin making your own impact on the students who need you most. Click here to learn more about American Board, and click here to learn more about steps to teaching in Idaho.
