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Can you tell us about yourself? 

Hi, my name is Kayla Komorek and I am a second year, sixth and eighth-grade science teacher at Rockwood, South middle in Fenton, Missouri.

Why did you start a career in education?

I started here in education because I wanted to be a teacher. For the first time, someone asked what I wanted to be. When I grew up throughout my K through 12 schooling, I was constantly helping kids in my class with their work tutoring, friends, as well as kids that were younger than me and applying for leadership roles throughout my schools. All of this helped prepare me for my teaching practices throughout college. 

If you could have any other job what would it be and why?

If I was given a choice to change careers, I would politely turn it down without a second thought. I have worked so hard to prepare and learn how I can be the best teacher possible. And that's what I plan on doing for the rest of my teaching career. Being a teacher is what defines me.

How are kids different now than 30 years ago?

Listening to stories for my coworkers about the differences between kids now in 30 years ago is not all that shocking. 30 years ago, there were not as many discipline issues. Cell phones. It Wasn't a problem. And students came to school to learn as time has gone on parent support has dwindled. Kids are not as disciplined as they once were. And technology has become a major issue for some, unfortunately, as I'm sure we've all heard technology is both a blessing and a curse.

How is teaching different now than 30 years ago?

While on one hand, without technology, we would have never been able to implement online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. And for that, I am grateful on the other hand, though, kids have now grown up with cell phones and computers since the very start of their lives, and they expect information to just be handed to them since they can easily look it up. It's kind of a win, lose situation for those interested in teaching.

What would you tell someone who wants to become a teacher?

I would tell them not to be disheartened by the current situation. Educators are in the middle due to COVID. Well, the past year has been beyond challenging. The kids have made it all worthwhile. Just when you feel as though you've given all you can get, it's not making a difference a child will do or say something that restores your faith. It's all worth it in the end.

What would you change to help kids learn better?

If I could, if I could change one thing to help kids learn better, I would have schools offer more life skills classes in order to adequately adequately prepare kids for the real world while it's a great while. It's great. If a kid can remember what the mitochondria of the cell does, it's even better. If the child knows how to effectively communicate with others, problem solve and take care of themselves. Thanks.