Extraordinary Educator: Coleen Hatt, Biddeford Middle School

Celebrating Maine Teachers

Author: Jenna Jeffrey
Corporate Responsibility
Published: Monday, 03 May 2021

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Image caption: Coleen and her Family

Junior Achievement and MEMIC recognize educators as role models and mentors who help empower, motivate, and prepare students to envision their future and ignite a passion for continuous learning. The "Extraordinary Educators" campaign will take a closer look at Maine educators, their stories, their commitment to serving Maine’s youth, and the impact they have on their students.

Take a look at our Q&A with Biddeford Middle School educator Coleen Hatt!

What made you want to become a teacher?

I have wanted to be a teacher since I was a child. I attended school through the Biddeford school department as a child, and enjoyed learning. I was inspired by my teachers and coaches, and decided to follow that path. I am now fortunate to teach with one of my former educators and now my dear friend on my academic team, Tammy Lavigne.

Do you have a favorite memory as a teacher?

My favorite memory as a teacher from the past was taking our students camping every spring. We would spend two nights and three school days teaching students their academic subjects in the great outdoors. The students enjoyed boating, swimming, and playing games with us in their free time.

Why do you choose to bring JA to your students?

JA brings real world experience into my classroom. My students enjoy being able to talk to professionals in different careers and learn about their professional experiences. My students learn through the JA experience that what they do today in middle school can effect the choices they are able to make in life.

Do you have a favorite JA moment in your classroom?

My favorite JA experience was coordinating a panel of professionals with different careers and life experiences that the students had the opportunity to question and learn from. I think the students enjoyed learning about each person's career and listening to their advice on education and career choices.

What do you hope your students take away from their time with you?

I hope that students take away from their time with me that they always have an adult that will support them and believe in them long after they leave my classroom. I believe having involved teachers, coaches, and adults made a difference in my life and I hope that I am able to make that difference for my students.

Thank you Coleen, for all you do for Maine students!

Follow the Extraordinary Educators campaign on JA's social media platforms as we highlight Maine educators, their stories, their commitment to serving Maine’s youth, and the impact they have on their students.

Facebook: Junior Achievement of Maine
Twitter: @JAofMaine
Instagram: @JAofMaine
LinkedIn: Junior Achievement of Maine
YouTube: Junior Achievement of Maine