One of the many ways New Life Academy equips students for leadership is through the Upper School Teaching Assistant (TA) program. Through this program, any junior or senior student has the opportunity to take on meaningful responsibility within the classroom by supporting teachers and serving students. Gaining real-world experience, building confidence, and developing leadership skills, TAs make a positive impact on the New Life community across all grade levels, extending far beyond a single class period.
In Monica Doherty’s kindergarten class, senior Kayden W. helps prepare materials, supports daily routines, and works one-on-one with kindergarten students. Kayden has served as Mrs. Doherty’s TA for the past 4 semesters and has become an integral part of her classroom. “Kayden has been a warm, friendly face and another adult that students can go to for support,” Mrs. Doherty shares. “The kids love her,” she continues, “They always ask about her when she isn’t able to come, and they even want to pray for her. They enjoyed cheering her on in the decade dance and seeing the hallway she was a part of decorating. She is a part of our class community, and the kids love having her be with us each morning.”
Senior Kayden W. works alongside kindergarten teacher Monica Doherty to nurture a love of learning in the classroom.
In the music department, senior Adam C. and junior Chase M. mentor middle school band students, assisting band teacher Rosalee Allard with playing assignments, organizing sheet music, and maintaining the classroom. Ms. Allard affirms the positive influence that both Adam and Chase have had on her middle schoolers. “I’ve seen certain students attach themselves to one TA or the other, often asking them for help or just having friendly conversations, which is something you don’t often see between middle and high schoolers. Having influence from an older student is so helpful to encourage younger players to continue playing, too!”
Band teacher Rosalee Allard partners with senior Adam C. and junior Chase M. to mentor Middle School musicians.
In Upper School science and engineering classes, teacher Shay Motalebi trusts her senior TAs, Leo E. and Elijah C., to prepare labs, grade assignments, and bring reliability and a strong work ethic to her classroom. “I like to partner with my student TAs to create a more efficient and supportive learning environment because they understand firsthand what their classmates need to stay engaged. They demonstrate responsibility, initiative, and a sense of ownership in the classroom,” Mrs. Motalebi explains.
Similarly, senior Technology Intern Zach D. supports Mrs. Motalebi by maintaining and repairing the 3D printers, teaching demonstration tutorials, and ensuring students receive the support they need. “Instead of losing days of progress, he quickly diagnoses and resolves issues, allowing students to stay on track. His initiative prevents frustration and preserves valuable instructional time,” Mrs. Motalebi reflects. “He also develops engaging strategies and creative project ideas for students. For example, he led a spinning top and fidget spinner design competition that students thoroughly enjoyed.”
Upper School teacher Shay Motalebi partners with seniors Elijah C., Zach D., and Leo E. to support hands-on learning in Upper School science and engineering classes.
Just as important as the impact TAs have on the New Life community is the way the experience is shaping them personally. In addition to growing in responsibility and initiative, Kayden reflects, “Being a TA has grown my problem-solving skills and also my people skills by interacting with teachers and staff that I normally wouldn’t have a chance to get to know.” In the science classroom, Leo affirms, “Being a TA has helped me learn to become more independent.”
In the band room, Adam has grown in intentional leadership. “Being more intentional with what I do and how I act is my mindset for how I can be a good example to other students,” Adam comments. That same leadership development is evident in the science classroom, where Zach has stepped into the role of teacher. “Through being able to work with students one-on-one and lead the whole class in portions, I have been able to develop teaching abilities and get a view into what it is like to be a teacher,” Zach explains.
While the personal lessons are varied, one theme stands out: servant leadership. Elijah reflects on his growth, saying that being a TA “… helped me gain a bit more knowledge about bringing my focus every day, working earnestly, and asking what else needs to be done with a mindset of helpfulness.”
By showing up, supporting others, and looking for ways to help every day, TAs are learning what it means to lead with care and generosity. Mrs. Doherty affirms that she has seen TAs grow in leadership and service firsthand.
The TA program is such a valuable program at NLA. It allows Upper School students to use their gifts to work with both students and adults. It builds and grows problem-solving abilities, confidence, leadership, and initiative. It allows TAs to be mentors to younger children and gives them opportunities to work alongside teachers to complete projects, evaluate student work, be an extra resource, and be a part of God’s ministry in the classroom.
Monica Doherty – NLA Kindergarten Teacher
