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Pictured is Breigh Svonavec, a 2008 Point Park education alumna and sixth grade teacher for Somerset Area School District. | Photo by Sheena Zolla


Meet Breigh Svonavec

Job Title: Sixth Grade English Teacher
Employer: Somerset Area School District
Degrees earned: B.A. in Elementary Education, Point Park University, 2008 and M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, Frostburg State University, 2013
College activities: Honors Program and Community Outreach Partnership Center
Hometown: Rockwood, Pa.
High school: Rockwood Area High School
Now living in: Johnstown, Pa.
Hobbies/interests: Teaching dance at Studio 7 School of Dance, teaching BodyFlow (a class consisting of Tai Chi, Pilates and Yoga) at the Somerset Hospital Wellness/Rehabilitation Center and competing in races (specifically mud/adventure runs)

Why did you decide to pursue your education degree at Point Park University?

I selected Point Park for its education department's outstanding reputation in addition to having an opportunity to attend college in the heart of Pittsburgh, my favorite city. Receiving the University's presidential scholarship also aided in my decision to attend.

How did you land your teaching position with Somerset Area School District?

I feel as though my hard work and dedication during my four years as an undergraduate student truly prepared me for the entire interview process. I was calm and confident in my knowledge and abilities.

Describe your classroom teaching style.

My teaching style combines scaffolding for my students, opportunities for collaboration with peers and the mindset that all students are diverse learners from various backgrounds. I believe that every student can contribute positively to each lesson as well as the entire learning environment.

Who influenced you during your time at Point Park?

I truly enjoyed being a teaching assistant for Dr. Darlene Marnich's University Experience class. I learned so much from her teaching techniques, and the opportunities she provided for me were extremely beneficial as a classroom teacher.

What are your career goals?

My career goals are to always provide a positive learning environment of respect for all of my students and to hopefully continue making a difference in the lives of my sixth graders.

Final thoughts?

I thoroughly loved my time as a Point Park University student. I learned so much from my professors, and all of the experiences I had helped shape me into the person and teacher I am today.

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More About: elementary education, alumni, Somerset Area High School, education, success story, Rockwood Area High School