03 Nov Karissa Kuns
Degrees: B.S. in Psychology, Seattle Pacific University; M.A.T. (Master of Arts in Teaching) with a Reading Endorsement, Pacific University
Year Joined Staff: 2018
Professional Background: Karissa has interned and worked in various school districts and programs from Seattle to Palo Alto at all grade levels, including programs in special education.
During her Master’s Degree program, she interned at Emmaus Christian School where she got her first taste of classical Christian education. After graduation from Pacific University, she was hired at Agape Christian School (a former classical Christian school in Beaverton) as a 5th grade teacher, then later as a part-time middle school teacher.
She picked up the hobby of photography because she wanted high-quality pictures of her children’s activities. The owner of the performing arts studio where her children took classes liked her pictures and she was “hired” as the official photographer. She began taking official photos for dance shows, recitals, and musical theater.
Philosophy of Education: I believe that teachers are called to instruct students in new ideas and then to guide students in their own responsibility for both learning and behavior; the relationship is collaborative even at very young grade levels. Students are often capable of more than we give them credit for. I like to emphasize responsibility, communication, and respect in the classroom by listening to students. I want to hear what they have learned, their ideas and perspectives. A teacher’s primary goal is to help students learn and to train them to become independent learners. This skill will transfer to all areas of life as they grow in not only education, but also in their faith, family, and careers.