It's Not A Job, It's A Passion

Connerton Elementary School in Land O' Lakes is one of Pasco County's newest schools. It sits by itself off the main road, and there is very little around the school. While it is semi-secluded, it houses a very special and vital resource for the children - its teachers.

There is one teacher that stands out among her peers.

Kristen Whelahan, a kindergarten teacher that is not only young in age, but career as well. But don't let that fool you, Whelahan is a teacher who puts her all into her career, a career she calls her "passion."

Whelahan is a native of Long Island, N.Y., and is a graduate of Long Island University. She came to Florida five years ago to begin her teaching career.

Whelahan also has a passion for reading and obtained her master's in reading from the University of South Florida in 2010.

She is a person that erupts with excitement when she speaks of her love for teaching.

"Knowing that the children are so excited and motivated makes my job easier," said Whelahan. "You also find yourself learning from the children."

Whelahan enjoys the way children are always asking questions, "I love children and how inquisitive they are."

One of her favorite parts of her career is teaching reading, "seeing that moment when a child gets it and makes that connection."

"Teaching is something you have to have a passion for, you know if you want to be a teacher. I can't see myself doing another job," said Whelahan.

She said "sometimes I just look at my students and wonder what they might be in the years to come."

Influenced at an early age by her own kindergarten teacher, she recalled how this teacher would do reading and one-on-one time. "She was such a warm person, I would feel so confident," said Whelahan.

Prior to becoming a teacher, Whelahan worked as a camp counselor and in an ice cream parlor. These day's when she is not working she likes to spend time with family she has here and her friends. She also likes to read professional development books, spend time outdoors and stay fit.

Whelahan said "I don't think I would change anything about my career as long as the children are making growth and I'm able to help them reach their potential."

Anna Falcone, Connerton's principal, was asked about Whelahan.

"Ms. Whelahan is one of those top notch teachers who gives her all to make sure each and every lesson is standards based, interactive and most importantly child-centered. Her ongoing professional development, love for learning and passion for teaching are demonstrated when she makes learning come alive. It is always amazing to see the kindergartners in her room growing each day to become independent life long learners,” said Falcone.

"Do what you love and put your everything into it, because the feeling you get when you know you have done your job is such a good feeling," said Whelahan.