Story by Emily Kebert

From the first time Tina Van Ness observed Sydney Rushing teaching, one thing stood out.

“She has built strong personal relationships with her students and gets to know each of them as a unique learner,” said Van Ness, who serves as Rushing’s clinical coach during her student teaching internship. “Her lessons encourage students to think critically, collaborate and share their ideas.”

Rushing, a senior in the University of Missouri College of Education & Human Development, is completing her elementary student teaching internship in a fourth-grade classroom at Madison Crossing Elementary School in Mississippi. Working alongside her host teacher, Beverly Green, she has created a classroom environment where students are engaged, supported and challenged.

“Sydney created activities that were suitable for all students,” Green said. “The participation rate was very high, and students were able to connect their learning to real-life situations.”

Van Ness, who has worked with teacher candidates for several years, said Rushing stands out not only for her classroom presence, but for her willingness to grow.

“She actively seeks feedback and uses it to improve her practice,” Van Ness said. “That intention directly impacts her students’ learning in meaningful ways.”

Those qualities reflect the kind of preparation Mizzou’s teacher education program is designed to provide — combining strong coursework with early and consistent classroom experience. For Rushing, that preparation has made all the difference.

Now, as she prepares to graduate, she is ready to step into her own classroom.

Meet Sydney Rushing

Can you introduce yourself and your major?
My name is Sydney Rushing. I am a graduating senior studying Elementary Education with a minor in Human Development and Family Science. I’m from Madison, Mississippi. 

What’s a standout moment from your time at Mizzou?
A standout moment from my time at Mizzou would have to be my first Homecoming! My family was able to come up and experience it with me. We walked downtown and saw the Homecoming decorations and saw the Tigers win! I can still hear the excitement in the stadium and picture Truman riding on the fire truck. 

Tell us about a moment at Mizzou that really shaped you.
It’s hard to point to just one moment. My entire time at Mizzou has been truly rewarding. I’ve accomplished so many personal goals and met amazing people and lifelong friends. All of the classes and professors have helped me to reach the place I am at now — ready to head into my first classroom. This has really been an unforgettable experience!

What’s been your favorite experience at the College of Education & Human Development?
My favorite part has been my courses, especially LTC 4221 (Context and Methods for Elementary Reading Instruction) and LTC 4211 (Literacy Assessment and Development) with Instructor Fran Atkins. Fran was an a-m-a-z-i-n-g professor and really modeled how excited and dedicated teachers should be about the classroom and the students in it. She made every lesson interesting and made class such a fun place to be! I use so much of what she taught in that class every day when interacting with my students. 

How did Mizzou support you in reaching your goals?
My time at Mizzou has really helped me become the teacher I want to be. Being able to get into the classroom starting sophomore year and gain real classroom experience with students was so valuable. I have experienced so many different classrooms and teaching styles. Now I can create the perfect classroom to fit my unique style. The classes helped me better understand the thought processes of students in various subject areas like reading, math, science, writing, special education, and language learning. As I prepare to enter my own classroom as a first-year teacher, I feel prepared to welcome students and teach tailored content because of Mizzou! 

What’s next for you after graduation?
After graduation, I’ll be heading back to Mississippi to teach fourth-grade English language arts in my home school district. I’m excited to start my career and have my own classroom!