Stepping into Erin Mulgrew’s third-grade classroom is like walking into a hub of creativity, energy and connection. Erin, currently serving as a leave replacement teacher at George Grant Mason Elementary, brings a unique blend of experience, enthusiasm, and genuine passion for teaching to her students every day.
Erin’s love for education began early. During high school and college, she worked with preschoolers, gaining valuable insights into early childhood education. A defining moment came in her senior year of high school when she participated in a program that allowed her to assist in a second-grade classroom.
After graduating from college, Erin jumped right into the classroom, first as a leave replacement for first grade, then teaching kindergarten. This year, she has embraced the opportunity to teach third grade, which she admits has been a big—but rewarding—shift.
“Kindergarten and third grade are so different,” Erin shares. “In kindergarten, you’re teaching students how to read words. In third grade, it’s more advanced—you’re teaching them story elements and focusing on comprehension.”
Erin finds joy in tailoring lessons to her students’ interests. A recent persuasive writing project had students writing letters to the new principal, advocating for fun ideas like pajama day every day or a parade on the first day of school. “This class is very creative, and we’re able to do a lot of hands-on, engaging activities,” she says.
One of the aspects Erin loves most about teaching in TUFSD is the strong sense of community among her students. “These kids all know each other—they’ve been together since the beginning, and it shows. They’re like siblings, supporting and sometimes challenging one another in ways that make the classroom dynamic and unique.”
What drives Erin every day is the belief that teaching is about more than just academics. “I want my students to remember how I made them feel. If they look back at third grade as a positive experience, that’s a win for me,” she says. “Once students are happy and enjoying school, the learning will come naturally.”