Alumni Spotlight: Kayla Boykin

Kayla Boykin graduated from the ECU College of Education in 2016 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, concentrating in elementary science. She now serves as a K-8 science teaching and learning specialist.

What is your favorite memory from your time in the College of Education?

As a College of Education major, some of my favorite memories were rooted in the elementary science concentration. Our classes were filled with hands-on exploration and curiosity. I still remember constructing river tables, making predictions about the “black box,” and designing roller coasters to test force and motion. Those experiences brought science to life in ways that lectures alone never could. Beyond the classroom, our informal learning experiences along the greenway and at River Park North deepened my appreciation for connecting science to the natural world. The most impactful experience during my time as a pre-service teacher was attending the North Carolina Science Teachers Association conference. I went eager to gather new strategies and ideas to bring back to my future classroom. Now, ten years into my career, I still attend this conference and have the privilege of presenting to the next generation of North Carolina science teachers. Each year it renews my sense of purpose and reminds me why I am passionate about teaching science in ways that spark curiosity and capture students’ hearts and minds.

What words of advice or encouragement would you share with current College of Education students?

My advice to current College of Education students is simple: Never stop learning. Take advantage of every opportunity right now, but remember that walking across the stage is just the beginning. The classroom is a daily opportunity to grow. My students have taught me just as much as I have taught them. When we model lifelong learning and encourage it in our students, we empower them to flourish long after they leave our classrooms.