April 30, 2025
Spring 2025 Graduate: Jaleigh-Marie Callahan
Name: Jaleigh-Marie Callahan
Major/Degree Program: Secondary Science Education
Hometown: Leland, NC
Hobbies/interests:
My hobbies and interests include anything and everything beach related. I love laying out in the sun, looking for seashells and shark teeth, and I could stay in the ocean forever if I could. I’m very close with my family and friends, so I always make sure to spend as much time with them as possible.
What’s your favorite memory from your time at ECU?
My favorite memory from my time at ECU has to be my student teaching experience at D.H. Conley. Walking into that classroom every day, getting to know my students, and watching them grow has created moments I’ll never forget. Early on, I had a student who didn’t attend school regularly and lacked motivation for learning. One day, I invited him to our free period for one-on-one help. Since then, he’s come to school every day and has even started attending our extra support blocks. That moment showed me how impactful a teacher-student connection can be. My students and clinical teacher gave me memories that made me truly appreciate the privilege of being their teacher, and I can’t wait to continue building meaningful relationships in the years to come.
What inspired you to pursue a career in education?
Growing up, I always thrived in the classroom setting. When I started thinking about careers, I knew in my heart that I loved being in a science classroom—with the hands-on labs and the freedom to ask questions and explore how things worked. That environment always felt exciting and engaging. I realized I didn’t just love learning science—I loved the way it was taught, the creativity behind lessons, and the positive influence a great teacher can have. That’s when it clicked: I wanted to be the one creating that experience for students, sparking curiosity, and helping them see that science can be both meaningful and fun.
Who has made the biggest impact on your journey here?
Dr. Mark Newton has been such a rock for me throughout my journey at ECU. His support extended far beyond the classroom—he always made time to talk about teaching and life, gave uplifting advice, and reminded me that I was doing amazing work. He helped me feel at ease, knowing I had someone who believed in me as both a person and an educator. My goal is to be that kind of person for my students—to let them know they always have my support and encouragement, no matter what.
What’s next after graduation?
I’m incredibly grateful to say that I’ll be heading back home to the beach! I’ve signed an early contract with New Hanover County Schools, and my goal is to teach biology and/or marine science at one of the high schools in Wilmington.
What advice would you give to future College of Education students?
One piece of advice that carried me through my time in the College of Education is this: you are exactly where you’re meant to be—and so are your students. There will always be people who question your decision to become a teacher, but you chose this path for a reason. Your purpose is to make learning meaningful and exciting for your students. Also, always say yes to learning—whether its observing other classrooms, attending extra opportunities offered by the COE or ECU, or collaborating with your peers. We never stop learning—and that’s the beautiful part of being in education.
How has the College of Education prepared you for the classroom (or your next step)?
The College of Education at ECU has prepared me to be an educator in countless ways—especially by showing me that there’s no one-size-fits-all method for teaching. Through my professors and internships, I’ve learned how to approach lessons from different angles, use multiple strategies to support all types of learners, and adapt based on student needs. From creating differentiated lesson plans to managing a classroom effectively, I’ve built a wide range of skills I’m confident to bring into my own classroom. The COE has shown me the value of flexible, student-centered learning. It’s not just about delivering content—it’s about making learning meaningful and accessible for every student.
From Dr. Mark Newton (associate professor in science education): Jaleigh has embodied what it means to be a successful high school science teacher. She is an excellent student who strives to create a highly supportive classroom with high expectations. She has persevered throughout her time at ECU as the lone Secondary Science major, she often found herself with Middle Grades and Math Education students. Instead of using this as an excuse, she thrived by incorporating the knowledge from these other areas to inform her practice.