Educator Spotlight: Lara Holt

Lara Holt

Windsor Charter Academy Schools | Geometry/Algebra II Teacher | MathCounts/MathLeague Coach

NHS Advisor/Math NHS Advisor | Basketball, Soccer, & Track Coach | Khan Academy Ambassador

Middle and Early College High School | Envision Nominator

What do you think is the biggest obstacle students are facing today?

Students have a myriad of external obstacles they encounter depending on a variety of factors; no one person or group has the same external challenges. However, an obstacle common to all of them is the internal ability to deal with whatever their own personal obstacle is. Many students are simply lacking the belief in themselves and necessary tools and resources to tackle their challenges and grow from them. As a teacher and parent, this is one of the key paradigms I seek to address with students: a belief that they are fully capable of choosing their own path and are not limited by their own personal struggles.

Why do you nominate your students for Envision’s summer programs?

I nominate because I think it’s important to provide enrichment opportunities for students to explore what they’re passionate about.

What changes have you noticed in your students since they attended?

One big change I’ve noticed is that they are less anxious about the path to pursuing a career in the field of medicine. They now have knowledge, which in this case has brought a peace of mind. I have also heard them comment that they are going to seek out leadership opportunities to continue their growth and ability to make an impact.

How do you feel Envision’s programs complement what you are doing in the classroom?

The Envision curriculum is very communicative and collaborative in nature and helps students further refine their soft skills, which are so crucial to their success in a 21st century global community. Further, students gain important hands-on skills through immersion in a variety of simulations. These are crucial components to learning that “stick” and ones that are foundational in my own classroom. Additionally, I observed students analyzing ethical scenarios, problem-solving, applying their learning, and creating and giving presentations to one another in a very real-world context, all of which support what I do in the classroom.