Kailea Griffen

Please describe your position and what you enjoy most about it.

I am teaching 6th grade choir, 6-8th grade LEAP (which is Hannibal’s gifted education program), and Computer Science for Innovators & Makers through Project Lead The Way. Because my roles are so different, I really enjoy when students make cross-curricular connections. For example, when a choir student who is also in computer science figures out how to code a melody to a song!

What aspects of your HLGU experience helped you prepare for your career?

I learned the most through my field experience placements along with my education courses. My cooperating teachers at my placements were so helpful and encouraging and my education professors took the time and effort to ensure flexibility in their content so that it was applicable to music education. I have used much of the knowledge from my education courses at Hannibal Middle School.

What have you enjoyed most about your career?

I have enjoyed getting to know my students and building relationships with them. I am excited to see their progress throughout this school year.

Have you or are you currently continuing your education? If so, please list the institution(s) and degree(s) you earned or are working toward.

I am working toward my Gifted Education Certificate through Truman State University.

How did HLGU shape you as a person?

Not only did HLGU provide educational growth but also spiritual growth. It has shaped me into a Christian educator which I think is evident in my classroom.

Please share a specific example from your career or life when the skills you gained at HLGU helped you most.

When I was offered my position, I was so excited but also very nervous. I had doubts about my capabilities. I knew that this was where God wanted me to be but it was scary as a first year teacher to take on so many roles. Because of HLGU, I knew to put my trust in God because wherever God places you is the best place you can possibly be.

What HLGU professors played a part in your success? How did your relationship with faculty help you succeed?

Mrs. Jane Griffen and Mrs. Lori Scott in the music department played a big role in my success. These women of faith were so helpful, encouraging, and understanding. They helped me through every obstacle during my HLGU experience and gave me many opportunities to perform, learn, and grow.

Dr. Lanett Jauss in the education department was also a big contributor to my success. There were several times in her education classes where assignments or projects were difficult to connect to music education, but she was patient enough to sit down with me and help adapt lessons so that they were practical for me as a music education major. She did not simply do this for me but also so she could understand the needs of her future music education students. She works so hard to see that all her students succeed and supports them inside and outside of the classroom.

I am so grateful for these amazing women!

Do you have any tips to share with students interested in this field?

PRACTICE! Effort is what makes the difference between mediocrity and excellence.

What are some of your favorite HLGU memories?

I will never forget all the bus rides home after Chamber Choir outings. We would sing at the top of our lungs and laugh until our abs hurt. I miss making beautiful music with such amazing friends!

What on-campus activities were you involved in at HLGU?

I was involved in Concert Choir and Chamber Choir.

HLGU’s motto is “knowledge for service.” What roles have these values played in your life?

I use my knowledge to serve children every day in my career. I am using my knowledge to help better the futures of all of my students.