Corrina Hargett – 9th-12th Grade Early Childhood Education, Career and Technical Education, Psychology, and Exploring Computer Science at Newport High School – Newport, OR
I’ve had the pleasure of teaching and learning alongside my students at Newport High School in Newport, Oregon, for the past nineteen years. I teach early childhood education. Throughout my time at Newport High, I’ve built a school garden with and for my students. The garden is a safe space for students to thrive. Watching the older students help the younger students has been and continues to be one of the highlights of my day. Now more than ever, students need real world, hands-on experiences that allow them to explore, inquire, and problem solve. The garden is a classroom outside of the classroom, and it holds no limitations on who or how someone can contribute to the lessons learned within it. It includes everyone and has sparked a passion in me to learn more about food education. I believe in the power of kindness and inclusivity. I have an MS-Ed in special education and it’s allowed me to learn from and teach students who learn differently. Outside of school, I’m passionate about horticulture, surfing, cooking, and being with my family. I love being in the great outdoors and sharing experiences with those I love. Nature connects us to learning and to what is most important inside ourselves. I’m excited to be able to share what I’ve learned and continue to learn about food education with others. There’s a quote on my old education building at Western Oregon University which states, “Who dares to teach must never cease to learn.” My hope is to continue learning, sharing, and connecting with others from all walks of life.