Ms. Maddux Federici is a new student teacher here at NDA. Federici is not only observing classes and teachers but also helping teach Mrs. Molly Mattke’s science classes.
Federici grew up in Wausau with her parents and three siblings. She enjoys active activities such as walking, hiking and working out, and she is an avid reader.
“Growing up, I was always reading a book,” said Federici.
Federici is in her senior year at St. Norbert College. She plays hockey there and has been a team captain for three years.
Regardless of the sacrifice and challenges of being a student athlete at a collegiate level, Federici still enjoys and appreciates her years on the team.
“Playing hockey has taught me so many life skills, like resilience, confidence and how to advocate for myself and other girls in sports,” she said.
So far Federici has observed Mrs. Mattke’s Biology, Honors Biology, and Chemistry A classes, Mr. Prudisch’s Physical Science and Earth & Environmental Science classes, Mrs. Mayer’s IB Biology class and Mrs. McGinnity’s ML Class.
“The more I see, the more I learn!” exclaimed the student teacher.
Federici started teaching one period of Honors Biology last week Thursday, and each week she will teach one additional class period.
Originally Federici was set on going into the medical field, so she could help people. She concluded. however, that she would not feel fulfilled in that career field. Even though she claims it took her a while to admit it to herself, her true calling is being a teacher.
“I had some phenomenal teachers in middle and high school that truly cared about me and my success beyond academics, and I want to be able to give that support back to my future students,” she explained.
The interest in science comes from pure fascination with the subject. Federici’s favorite specific subject to learn is anatomy and physiology.
“Everything is connected, and that to me is just awesome!” she said about her love towards all things science.
Federici wants to accumulate better teaching strategies, learn how to manage a classroom and experience what it’s like to be a real teacher. With NDA’s help, she is looking to get those aspects out of her experience here.
“The only way to really learn how to teach is to do it! So far, everyone I have met has been so helpful and very welcoming,” she said.
