Waukee Teacher of the Week: Chris Bergman of South Middle School

Chris Bergman, an extended learning teacher at , has been teaching for more than 20 years, four of them in the Waukee school district. This mom of two — son Jake is a sophomore at and daughter Alivia is in seventh grade at Waukee Middle School — says that teaching is more than just her career. It's a part of her.

Bergman was nominated for because she "works very hard to ensure schedules align, is a huge advocate for students and has excellent communication with parents. Chris is a leader. Her role is unique in that she serves our gifted population but also supports all learners and teachers to ensure higher level learning. She is active in helping to facilitate professional development and is a continued resource for students, parents and colleagues."

Waukee Patch spoke to Bergman to get her take on what makes her efforts notable and why she loves what she does for a living.

Waukee Patch: What is extended learning? Is that talented and gifted?

Chris Bergman: Yes, I think a lot of people identify with that term. There are a lot of talented and gifted identified kids here in Waukee. I feel like high-level learners is a little bit of a nuance.

Waukee Patch: What does an extended learning teacher do?

Chris Bergman: I work with sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders on math, English, science, social studies. I get to be in every aspect of their learning. My position here is three-fold: I work directly with kids that are identified for programming and other high-level learners that need additional challenges or rigor. I work with teachers on support and instruction — seeing if we need to move kids to the next step, helping with pacing, anything that will help kids to exceed. I am also heavily involved with professional development here at South.

Waukee Patch: What was it about working with extended learners that appealed to you?

Chris Bergman: I loved their inquisitive nature and their passion for learning, not just for what we were doing in the classroom, but for what they wanted to learn and dive deeper into. I love their creativity and these kids are very strong in that.

I think when someone conjures up a picture of a child that needs extended learning, typically it’s someone who has all the right answers and does all their work. I like that I can also help kids learn. You want them to be able to thrive and flourish. To be in that position, I knew that would get to work through a lot of people. You can touch a lot of kids through a lot of teachers.

Waukee Patch: What do you love about your job?

Chris Bergman: It’s the kids. There’s no doubt about it. That’s where my heart is. It’s just wonderful to see how they’re growing and progressing.

Waukee Patch: What do you think sets you apart from other educators?

Chris Bergman: Teaching is more than what I do; it is who I am. I truly value my families and colleagues and hope to always be there to support them. I am someone who seeks out the good in others and builds relationships to help others grow, improve, and enjoy each day.

Waukee Patch: What one piece of advice do you give?

Chris Bergman: Build on your strengths. Find out what you’re good at and give yourself the chance to delve into a lot of different things because sometimes, those things are hidden behind doors we may not normally open. Just keep your mind open to the possibilities and go with your heart.