Who is Ms. Sophie?

My name is Sophie Decker, and I am a  recent graduate from The University of Vermont. I have my degree and license in Early Childhood education. I have always been enthusiastic about the education of young children, and through my educational journey, my passion has only grown. I am around kids in all aspects of my life. When I am not teaching or learning in a classroom, I am teaching dance to kids. Education and teaching are at the core of who I am as an individual. Before teaching dance, I was a dancer for fifteen years. I was lucky enough to compete in nationals two years in a row. I am a native Vermonter, growing up in Grand Isle my whole life.

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I am humbled and honored to have the opportunity to teach at Christ The King. Throughout my educational journey, I have discovered my unique practice and what I value most in education. Observation and a responsive curriculum are at the heart of education. Children thrive when their natural interests are extended and deepened. That is where my job comes in, it is the role of the teacher to add to the children’s natural interests while ensuring all educational domains are being taught.

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I align heavily with Vygotsky’s approach to social constructivism. Children learn from one another, and those collaborative experiences are essential to support them as human beings, and as a student. Peer collaboration and problem-solving are essential life skills that begin to develop in the early years of life.

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As mentioned above, I am no stranger to children, or working with children. I grew up with nineteen cousins, I was born in the middle of the group. This allowed me to watch my younger cousins grow. I saw their first steps, their first words, and their first experience in school. It was through this I saw how impactful the first few years of schooling are, as it sets a tone for how they feel about education for the rest of their educational journey.

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Since deciding I wanted to become an educator, I have taught dance, babysat extensively, and run summer camps. I began teaching dance classes for children ages five through thirteen when I was sixteen. I was then lucky enough to be accepted into the University of Vermont’s early childhood education program. I have been able to work with and teach children spanning in age from 1 to 17 years old.

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My strengths include being proficient in most technology platforms, parent communication, flexibility, and child communication. I love stepping into the classroom knowing every day will offer new and exciting opportunities and challenges.

I am beyond grateful and humbled for this opportunity.