Stephanie Murray, known as Coach Steph, is a first-year AmeriCorps coach at McCall Elementary School. Coach Steph has been incredibly consistent, organized, and committed during her first month of school. She shows up to school every day with a great attitude and is constantly evaluating her program in order to make improvements. Here is Coach Steph’s Story!
A story comes to mind about a young fifth grade girl with a disability. Most of the time, she likes to stand back and not be noticed; but I wanted her to have the same opportunity as every other student. With a little encouragement from me, her teacher, and some of her classmates, she gathered the courage to participate. At that time we were playing a kickball games and she was up to kick. She not only kicked the ball, but kicked it very well and it was as much of a shock to her classmates as it was to herself. The smile on her face said it all! It was something she may not have felt comfortable doing, or may not have ever been given the opportunity, but she was successful and felt accomplished. For some students, it may be more difficulty to get involved. I have found that getting them involved in different ways, such as just being your helper or gathering the equipment will make their day and will to boost their confidence.
As an AmeriCorps member and a member of my school community, I work hard to make the community a safer, stronger, and healthier place. I enjoy doing my part by teaching students respect, self-confidence, and problem solving through games and play. It is important to me to not only have a relationship with my students, but also with teachers, school staff, and the families of the school community. Together we can all make the community a better place.
