Alumni Spotlight: Claire Johnson

Class of 2024

Major:

Hometown:

Baltimore

Job:

Teacher at Marymount’s Early Learning Academy (ELA)

Why Marymount?

I chose to study at Marymount because of its small school environment and proximity to Washington, D.C., and my home. I appreciated all the opportunities available in the DMV area.

What was your fondest memory while attending Marymount?

My favorite memory was being part of the dance team, performing at the men’s and women’s basketball games and having the opportunity to dance at the championship games for both teams. I’m also truly grateful for the Marymount community, which has allowed me to grow and stay connected. I couldn’t have gotten where I am today without Dr. Azevedo and Dr. Benbow pushing me to grow to my fullest potential.

Why did you want to become a teacher at Marymount’s Early Learning Academy?

I’ve always wanted to make a difference in children’s lives and strive to create a positive daily impact. What inspired me to teach at Marymount’s Early Learning Academy was the close-knit school environment, which is similar to what I experienced during my childhood. I admire the strong commitment to play-based learning and fostering and encouraging our students to think outside the box. My favorite aspect of working at the ELA is the tight-knit community we have here — having the ability to collaborate with other teachers and classrooms has been influential on my teaching ability.

What is your usual day-to-day like at the ELA?

Our daily schedule includes an hour and a half of “free play” in the morning, during which we set up “morning centers” — tables laid with items highlighting our weekly theme. For instance, last week’s theme was fire safety, so one table featured coloring pages for firefighters, firehouses and fire dogs. We also had red blocks and fire trucks for imaginative play, allowing the kids to “put out fires,” along with playdough mats for creating fire hoses, boots and extinguishers.

After cleaning up the centers, we enjoy a morning snack and then come together for circle time or a large group activity, such as singing a good morning song and discussing our plans for the day using the smartboard or whiteboard. We then head outside to play on the playground or stroll around campus. During our outdoor walks, we might do scavenger hunts or visit various locations, such as the security office at the front of the school. At least once a week, we also use the backfield for outdoor play.

Once we return indoors, we engage in activities like arts and crafts related to our weekly theme, conduct science experiments or create charts and worksheets that tie into our current lessons.

How has your Marymount education prepared you for the workforce?

My time at Marymount shaped me into the teacher I strive to be. Every course challenged me to think innovatively — equipping me with vital skills like classroom management, technology use in education, appropriate student assessment and lesson planning. These competencies are key to providing all students with the education and tools they need to succeed.

How do you hope to inspire students you interact with?

I hope to inspire my students to love learning and feel confident in expressing their ideas in the classroom.