3 Questions
Bernadette Supanick, Calvert County pre-k teacher
Three Questions with Bernadette Supanick
Bernadette Supanick is a focused, crafty, and super-charged pre_k teacher in Calvert County who is filled with ideas, patience, and gratitude. “I couldn’t do what I do without the help of incredible instructional assistants whose love of kids is just as big as mine. When I have a vision, they’ve seen it. Together, we’ve brought to life every crazy idea, every art project, and every impossible indoor recess obstacle course for our kids.”
You’ve been a union rep for five years. How would you describe your role?
At first, it was overwhelming. But as I became more experienced and received training, I learned that union work can’t work if we’re not connected first. In rep training, we learn how to stay professional with members and other staff and how to approach tough situations, including helping members know their contracts and what channels to take to protect and empower themselves.
We have monthly 10-minute meetings to update our members on things that are happening and things they should know about. A lot of people think they’re important to have just during negotiations, but they’re important to have year-round because what happens in between negotiations affects the next round of negotiations.
If you’re interested in union work, jump in! Connect with experienced union reps and learn from them. Remember, this is our union and your voice matters too!
You love to arrange flowers. How does such a mindful, artistic hobby play into your work as a busy pre-K teacher?
I love to create flower arrangements and enjoy flower festivals! When I’m teaching, I remember how I feel when I am able to do something I enjoy and can relax while doing it.
I really make an effort to bring the arts into our teaching. In my classroom, I observe what my students love and I allow them to be creative. Last year, we read Bear Snores On. I had the students recreate the setting of the story using materials from nature. Each child got a bag, and we went outside to collect some goodies. Students found corn husks, pinecones, gumballs, and so many twigs. Each student’s interpretation of the setting was incredible. By giving them the opportunities and space to be creative, students were able to bring their learning to life and have conversations with their peers that helped expand their language. These opportunities are as important for our youngest learners as they are for us as adults.
What’s the craziest thing that you’ve ever heard from a family about their student?
After hand, foot, and mouth disease popped up in my classroom, patient zero’s parents told me that he probably got it from popping bubbles in the toilet…after he pees. My face probably said a lot! You better believe we cleaned and then bleached everything—toys, tables, chairs, light switches, the entire bathroom and then some. You can only imagine how that class circle went, explaining first that we don’t put our hands in the toilet…