Lindsay Bugryn, Class of 2009, Watertown, CT

What are you up to? I just started my 2nd year of teaching! Last year I taught 2nd grade and this year I am teaching Kindergarten in Waterbury. I absolutely love being in the classroom day to day. It's amazing to see how much my students learn throughout the year. I am also coaching the dance team at WHS. This will be my 4th year coaching the team. It's a great way to share my passion of dance with others! 

Who would of ever thought I'd be dating someone from high school that I never spoke to?! Well, I am! We've been dating for 4 years, 3 of those years he's been serving in the Air Force. Only a few months left until he's back to Watertown! 

If I'm not teaching, planning lessons, coaching or spending time with friends and family, you can always find me hanging out with my dog!

How'd you get here? I attended University of New Haven for my undergrad. I received my Bachelors Degree in Communications. My dream was to become a news anchor. That dream quickly changed after I was crowned Miss University of New Haven my senior year and started working with children in school systems. As I began to spend more time working in different schools, I realized I could be a positive influence while doing something I really enjoyed. I was able to work with children of all ages, however, I became very passionate about working with elementary aged children. Seeing how eager elementary school children are to learn made me recognize I could make a huge impact and help mold their futures. 

This led me to go back to school for my masters degree. Almost two years ago, I received my Masters in Elementary Education from The University of Bridgeport. After completing my student teaching in Wolcott, I was awarded Outstanding Student Teacher of the year. I was then offered a full time position teaching in Waterbury. Since then, I have loved every minute of it and can't wait to see what the future holds.

What are your goals? I plan to go back to school for my 6th year. Down the road I may decide to take on an administration role, but for now the classroom is where I want to be! I also hope to continue to build the dance team at the high school!

Advice for WHS Students? Expect the unexpected, prepare for obstacles, dream big, be happy and always believe in yourself.

How did you start your day? With 20 big smiles from my Kindergarteners!