An Unexpected Journey: From Business to the Classroom: Spencer Smith
In the world of education, sometimes the most impactful teachers are those who never imagined themselves standing at the front of a classroom. Spencer Smith, a Business Management graduate from Auburn University, is one such educator whose journey with Breakthrough Birmingham transformed his career path and opened his eyes to the power of teaching.
An Unexpected Turn Towards Teaching
From Dothan, AL, Spencer was in his final semester at Auburn, exploring job opportunities, when he first heard about Teach for America (TFA). It was through this initial interest that Jessica (Recruitment Team) introduced him to Breakthrough Birmingham, setting him on an unexpected path to education.
“I never imagined pursuing a career in education,” Spencer admits. “It wasn’t until Breakthrough that I realized this could be a path for me.”
The Breakthrough Experience: An Introduction to Teaching
Breakthrough Birmingham offered Spencer a unique opportunity to dip his toes into the world of teaching without diving headfirst into the deep end. As a Teaching Fellow in the summer of 2023, he taught Humanities to upcoming 8th graders.
“I had never taught in a classroom before,” Spencer recalls. “I felt overwhelmed at first, but once I got there and completed the training, the support from my team was incredibly relieving.”
This exposure to teaching in a supportive, introductory environment proved invaluable.
“Breakthrough gave me the exposure to teaching that I needed to see if I wanted to pursue a career in it,” he explains. “It was a good step to see what it was like, but light enough that I could determine if I enjoyed it.”
The Power of Mentorship and Growth
Throughout his Breakthrough experience, Spencer found encouragement and guidance from the program’s staff, notably Ms. Tyson, the Curriculum Coordinator. “Ms. Tyson was such an encouraging person for me and gave me what I needed to be successful,” he shares. “Her constant encouragement and direction was exactly what I needed during that confusing time.”
This mentorship played a crucial role in Spencer’s growth as an educator. He experienced a “lightbulb moment” during a Socratic circle discussion, where he saw firsthand the learning and growth in his scholars. “I was so surprised to see their engagement and the depth of their conversation,” he recalls. “It was then that I realized the impact I could have as a teacher.”
From Breakthrough to the Classroom
Did you know ¾ Teaching Fellows enter the classroom after graduation?
Spencer’s journey with Breakthrough Birmingham didn’t end with his summer fellowship. The connections he made and the skills he developed continued to support him as he transitioned into a full-time teaching role.
“I’m now teaching 6th grade U.S. History at Booker T. Washington through Teach for America,” Spencer shares. “Breakthrough was a huge reason why I’m here today. The resources and connections, like Luke Chamberlain and Ms. Tyson, who helped me get this position, have been invaluable.”
A Vision for Equitable Education
As Spencer continues his journey in education, he reflects on the challenges facing schools in the Birmingham community. “There are so many specific needs in city school systems,” he observes. “I wish we had the appropriate resources to meet each student’s needs, providing the proper differentiation for every child.”
Spencer emphasizes the value of programs like Breakthrough Birmingham for those considering a career in education. “The exposure to teaching in a low-stakes environment is valuable,” he advises. You can figure out if you enjoy being in front of kids and teaching without the pressure of being thrown into the deep end.”
Spencer Smith’s journey from business student to dynamic educator exemplifies the transformative power of Breakthrough Birmingham. By providing exposure, support, and growth opportunities, Breakthrough continues to shape the future of education in Alabama and beyond.
To learn more about how you can get involved with Breakthrough Birmingham and be part of this inspiring journey towards education equity, visit our website, follow us on social media, or give today! It is time to transform education with every dollar.
