TEACH FOR AMERICA PROFILE: DALE MOTT SLATER

 

A native of North Pole, Alaska, Dale attended Alfred University (New York), majoring in Sustainability and Food Systems. She is teaching 8th grade science at Pueblo Academy of Arts.

 

 

“School was a safe haven for me. It took a while for me to realize that that isn't the case for everyone. Every kid deserves a place where they're encouraged to grow, and where they feel comfortable doing so. If I can create that space, then I've succeeded.”

 

 

“Teaching isn't what I studied, but I've always assumed I'd end up doing it one day. Being a part of a community that was dedicated to sustaining and creating just and equitable school systems sounded like a dream to me. When TFA approached me with the offer to train me in teaching and help me get set up, I couldn't possibly say no.”

 

 

“I didn’t have any reservations about moving here. I grew up moving between parents in two different states. I have a thirst to explore. I moved to the other side of the continent for college, and was excited afterwards to set up shop in wonderful Pueblo for the first time.”

 

 

“Being at an Arts middle school, I couldn't be happier that I spent my first year and a half of college in art school. While I may not be an artist in my career, I think I learned some incredibly helpful skills that I can pass on to my students. It also taught a lot of time management skills that I'm drawing on now.”

 

 

“I love Pueblo D60. My colleagues are here out of love and passion. I couldn't ask for anything more in a workplace.”