This week's Staff Spotlight goes to Makayla Cottingham, Pre-K aide!
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in education?
I was inspired to pursue a career in education by my 1st grade teacher, Mrs. Smith. She showed up every day with a smile, truly loved each of her students, and always went the extra mile for us. I remember being so eager to go to school that I would even ‘play school’ on the weekends while my dad cut hair on Saturday mornings—his customers and my family became my students. Those experiences, along with the impact my teacher had on me, are what inspired me to pursue a career in education.
2. What’s your favorite part of working with students?
One of my favorite parts about working with, especially in Pre-K, is the conversations. You never know what they’re going to say, and they always keep me smiling. I also love seeing their growth throughout the year—by the time April comes around, it’s so rewarding to look back and see how much they’ve learned and how far they’ve come.
3. If you weren’t in education, what do you think you’d be doing?
If I weren’t in education, I would most likely be working as a family therapist. Growing up, I’ve always been someone people feel comfortable coming to for advice or support. Before deciding to pursue teaching, I even looked into becoming a therapist. I’ve always had a passion for helping others, which is what led me to education as well.
4. Do you have any professional goals you’re working on this year?
One of my professional goals is to begin working toward my Master’s degree before 2027. I have a few steps to complete before then, but it’s definitely something I’m committed to. I’m always looking for ways to grow professionally and am excited about what I can accomplish next.
5. What’s one thing you love most about our school community?
One thing that I LOVE about MVES is how close everyone is. Since my very first day, I’ve felt welcomed-when I walk into the building, I’m greeted by so many friendly face,. whether it’s a quick smile or a full conversation. MVES truly feels like a home away from home and I cherish that sense of community every day.
6. Is there a particular moment in the school year you look forward to each year?
A particular moment during the school year that I look forward to is Field Day- just a pure day of fun and games! The parents get to come and watch, some even join in on all the fun! It is so fulfilling to see the joy on the kids' faces while participating in all the activities.
7. Do you have any hobbies or hidden talents?
My hidden talent is that I can sing! I used to sing all the time growing up in church, at home, and in middle school my friends and I participated in the school talent show- we sang Set Fire to the Rain by Adele.
8. What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I think people would be surprised to learn that in high school, I was on the varsity cheerleading team—and that Mrs. Harvie, our current principal, was my French teacher! It’s so special having someone who knew me as a student now see me as an educator. It really feels like a full-circle moment.
9. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
If I could travel anywhere in the world, I would go to Italy because of all of the history of the country and I am a foodie, so I would love to know what true Italian food tastes like.
10. What’s a food you can never say no to?
A food that I can never say no to is the Salmon feast with their caesar salad from Taziki’s!! That literally is my all time favorite, I could eat it everyday and never get tired of it!