Employee Spotlight: Heather Pozil
For 13 years, Heather Pozil has been making a difference in the lives of young learners at McKinley Early Childhood Center/SNAP. As a special education preschool teacher, she focuses on creating a safe and nurturing environment where students feel supported and empowered to advocate for themselves. Inspired by the dedicated educators from her own childhood, Pozil strives to make a lasting impact on each of her students.
We caught up with Pozil to learn more about her passion for teaching, what motivates her, and her advice for families.
Q: What inspired you to become a teacher?
A: I was inspired by all the wonderful educators I had in my early years. Their passion and dedication made a lasting impact on me, and I wanted to provide that same support for my students.
Q: What do you find to be one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching?
A: The relationships I build with my students and their families. Those connections are so important in a child’s learning journey.
Q: What advice would you give to parents to support their children’s education?
A: Read with your child every day if you can! It makes such a difference in fostering a love for learning.
Q: How can families encourage learning at home?
A: Encouraging creativity at home is a great way to foster a love of learning.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of school?
A: I love spending time with my husband and two daughters, as well as reading.
Q: What’s a fun fact about you that your students might not know?
A: I was a premature baby, born three months early and weighing only 2 lbs 8 oz!
Q: If you could have any superpower as a teacher, what would it be?
A: Magically perfect behavior management—100% of the time!
Q: Who is a teacher or mentor that has inspired you?
A: Blanca Bandera and Rosemary Lyle have been incredibly helpful since I started at SNAP, and I often seek their advice. Jeanette Raymond has also been an inspiration and a great support throughout my journey.
Q: What makes South Bend Schools special to you?
A: The amazing people I work with, my students, and their families. They truly make this a special place!
South Bend Schools is proud to highlight Heather Pozil’s dedication and the positive impact she makes every day. Thank you, Heather, for your commitment to students, families, and education