A sure fire way for the kids to succeed is to have fun. So, when those smiling faces walk in the door and see her, it’s always time to keep things interesting.
“When I’m in here with a group of first-graders, it’s fun to put on a song and just let loose,” Holland said.
Yet, when the music stops, she knows that igniting their reading light bulbs won’t always be so easy. Students’ range of abilities can vary a lot, which is a roadblock she takes on with determination.
“I can’t always say ‘boys and girls, please read your worksheet instructions,’” Holland said. “Some students won’t be able to do it and comprehend it. In times like that, I’ll read it out loud with them.”
However many loops are thrown at her, she will always whip out her handy dandy tool, patience. Positivity is another key to success.
“I’m licensed to teach age three to grade six, but right now I definitely prefer the K-3,” Holland said.
Previously employed at Team Academy Charter School in Waseca for two years as a second-grade teacher, she is excited to commence her hopefully many more years in the NRHEG school district.
“It’s just amazing how much I still care about those Waseca kids,” Holland said. “It does make me kind of sad that I won’t get to see them, but it’s a good feeling to have a new set of students that walk into my classroom, engage in their work and are excited to learn too.”
Holland — known at NRHEG as standout three-sport athlete Erin Anderson — grew up in these halls, and is ready to do the same thing her teachers did for her.
“I really looked up to my teachers,” Holland said. “I realized back then how awesome they were and I still think about them a lot, so obviously they a difference in my life.”
So in 2009, she took ahold of her Minnesota State University, Mankato diploma and has been doing what she loves ever since.
“When we have down time, I like to sit down with the students and talk about anything and everything,” Holland said. “That’s how I get to know them.”
It actually wasn’t too long ago that she accepted this position. Three weeks ago, she came in for an interview and the following Friday afternoon, her excitement level skyrocketed.
“I just wanted to get into my room right away,” Holland said. “I do know some of the teachers in the district, and I feel like I can learn a lot from them, but bring a lot to the table as well.”
From day one, the faculty members have been a blessing to her. All the help makes her feel extremely lucky.
“Many have popped in to see how I'm doing and have been extremely helpful getting me started,” Holland said.
Recently married this past July, she is also grateful for her husband Matt’s help. He understands just how much time it takes to get a classroom ready and the extra time needed to succeed at her job.
“He knows that you can’t come into school and work from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.,” Holland said. “It takes time before and after school and some weekends. He’s a farmer, so he understands that sometimes it takes more hours for a job to get done.”
