Hello! I'm Alyssa Schmitt, an educator dedicated to creating a positive and engaging learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. I believe teaching is more than just sharing knowledge; it’s about inspiring students to believe in their own potential and confidently pursue their goals. My teaching philosophy revolves around fostering an inclusive and safe classroom where students feel valued, respected, and encouraged to take risks in their learning.
I strive to make learning fun and enjoyable by incorporating creative, hands-on activities that engage students and make the material come to life. Whether it's through interactive lessons, games, or projects, I want students to look forward to learning and to feel motivated by the possibilities of what they can accomplish. I believe that when learning is fun, students are more excited to participate, explore, and grow.
Above all, I work hard to create a safe learning environment where students feel comfortable enough to be themselves. In my classroom, students are expected to be kind, honest, and respectful, but also to embrace their unique qualities and ideas. I want every student to feel that they belong, and that their voice matters, because when they feel safe and supported, they are more confident in their learning journey.
What excites me most about teaching is the chance to ignite a love for learning in my students and watch them grow, develop new skills, and uncover their individual strengths. It's incredibly fulfilling to see them discover new things and take ownership of their education.
I hold a Master’s in Education from Buffalo State University, where I developed a strong foundation in teaching and learned innovative strategies to engage and support students of all backgrounds. I am certified in Birth-2nd grade and 1st-6th grade general education, which allows me to work with a diverse range of students and create a positive learning environment that promotes growth and development.
My undergraduate degree is in Business Leadership from Empire State College, where I honed my leadership, organizational, and communication skills. These skills have proven to be invaluable in the classroom, helping me manage my teaching responsibilities and collaborate effectively with colleagues, students, and their families.
In addition to my academic credentials, I am CPR certified and have spent several years in the medical field, working as a Phlebotomist. My experience in healthcare, including working through the Covid-19 pandemic, has strengthened my ability to remain calm under pressure and prioritize student safety and well-being.
I am always committed to continuing my education through workshops, certifications, and professional development to ensure I am equipped with the latest tools and strategies to support my students.
My path to becoming a teacher has been a unique and rewarding journey that has shaped me both personally and professionally. I began my career in education as an afterschool teacher aide at Buffalo Public School #74, where I worked from 2015 to 2020. During this time, I not only gained hands-on experience in the classroom, but I also worked in a construction office, where I learned to work under pressure, manage strict deadlines, and develop strong skills in Excel and PowerPoint. This experience helped me become highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable—skills that have greatly benefited me as an educator. While I enjoyed my work, I knew my true passion was in teaching, which led me to pursue my bachelor's degree and eventually transition fully into education.
In 2020, I obtained my phlebotomy certification and transitioned into the medical field, working as a phlebotomist from 2020 to 2023. While I appreciated the work, in 2022, I realized my true passion for education had never faded, and my heart was calling me back to the classroom.
In the spring of 2023, I enrolled in a Master’s in Education program, ready to follow my calling. That same year, I joined Sweet Home Central School District as a teacher aide in April 2023. This opportunity allowed me to deepen my understanding of teaching and learn from incredible educators. I completed my student teaching with Sweet Home in the fall of 2024 and am set to graduate in spring 2025 with my master’s degree in education.
Throughout this entire journey, my biggest support system has been my parents and my husband. Their unwavering encouragement and belief in me have been invaluable. In fact, I got married just six days after completing my master’s degree, marking a milestone in both my personal and professional life.
Teaching Philosophy:
As an educator, I believe that teaching is not just about delivering content but about inspiring students to unlock their full potential. My philosophy centers around creating an inclusive, engaging, and supportive learning environment where students feel valued, respected, and empowered to take risks in their learning journey.
I am deeply committed to fostering a classroom that encourages curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. I strive to make learning both fun and meaningful by incorporating hands-on activities, interactive lessons, and real-world applications that cater to diverse learning styles. I believe that when students are actively engaged in the learning process, they are more likely to develop a love for learning that lasts beyond the classroom.
Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment:
A key element of my teaching philosophy is the creation of a safe and positive classroom culture where students feel comfortable being themselves. I believe that every student has unique strengths, and it is my job to recognize and nurture those strengths. By establishing a classroom where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth, I encourage students to take risks and embrace challenges without fear of failure.
Commitment to Growth and Equity:
I view teaching as a continuous journey of growth—not just for my students, but for myself as well. I am committed to ongoing professional development and reflection to ensure that I am providing the best possible education for all of my students. I value equity and strive to meet each student where they are, adapting my teaching methods to support their individual needs and ensuring that all students have equal access to opportunities for success.
Ultimately, my goal is to instill a sense of confidence and resilience in my students, helping them become independent thinkers and lifelong learners. I believe that education has the power to change lives, and I am passionate about making a positive impact on the future of each student I have the privilege to teach.
Fun Facts:
When I’m not teaching, you’ll usually find me crafting or tackling a big project—whether it’s for my house or my classroom. I love using my creativity to enhance my space and make it more inviting. I’m also an avid reader and can often be found staying up late with a good book (or a TV series). I have a hard time leaving things unfinished, so once I start a book or show, I’m hooked until I’ve seen it through to the end!
I have a deep passion for helping others and will always reach out to friends or family to see if they need assistance with a project. Whether it’s organizing, crafting, or lending a hand with something, I enjoy using my skills to make a positive impact on the people around me.
Why I Love Teaching:
Teaching, to me, is not just a profession; it’s a calling. I love seeing the “aha” moments when students finally grasp a concept they’ve been struggling with. It reminds me of the very first time I experienced that in my own learning journey, and it fills me with a sense of purpose.
One of my favorite quotes that drives my passion for education is, “The greatest gift a teacher can give is the belief in their students’ ability to succeed.” This resonates with me because, as a teacher, my role is to build confidence, nurture curiosity, and guide students on their path to success. There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing a student believe in themselves and take ownership of their learning.