History Alumnus Levi Donaldson Brown Returns to Point Park University for ABCTE Propel Teacher Residency Program

Meet Levi Donaldson Brown '19 '23

Job Title & Employer: Teacher Resident, Propel Schools
Majors/Programs: ABCTE Program, History
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa.
High School: Barack Obama Academy of International Studies
Now Living In: Swissvale, Pa.
Hobbies & Interests: Traveling, learning languages, reading and playing video games

"Point Park's ABCTE program uses a hands-on approach focused on real classroom experience and prepares future teachers for their first year of teaching by familiarizing them with tools and skills they will use and incorporate into their classes."

Levi Donaldson Brown '19 '23

Why did you choose Point Park University for your undergraduate studies in history?

I chose Point Park because of its proximity to my home, and it was the perfect school to pursue liberal arts studies. I wish I had attended Point Park for all of my undergraduate career, and I am so glad I decided to transfer there after completing my sophomore year elsewhere.

What are your favorite memories from your undergraduate experience?

My favorite memories are presenting my senior capstone project on the Cuban Revolution of the 1950s and walking across the stage during the commencement ceremony. Both of those moments signified a huge achievement for me and my family. I am a first-generation university attendee and graduate, and it was a moment I will never forget for everyone involved in my life.

What inspired you to pursue a teaching career, and why did you choose Point Park's ABCTE program?

I got into teaching because I was a tutor and mentor for the past couple of years. I wanted to teach, but I did not want to take out more loans to receive a master's degree, so the ABCTE program was a great pathway. I came back to Point Park for the ABCTE program because of Propel’s Teacher Residency Program, which allows Propel resident teachers to earn their Pennsylvania teaching certification while receiving support and guidance from Propel Schools Residency staff and Point Park's School of Education. After completing all the necessary tests, I was enrolled in two courses that would help me achieve my teaching certification in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I completed both classes and my student teaching in May, and I am currently awaiting evaluation.

How has the ABCTE program fostered your professional growth?

The ABCTE program has helped foster my growth as a professional educator because I am able to look back on how I teach and what I can do to change or better how I am as a teacher for the students within my classroom. One of the key things I learned during my time studying the ABCTE course was the different methods for teaching in a differentiated classroom. All students do not learn the same way, so a big part of being a teacher is changing lessons based on the types of learners in the school.

Which faculty members have had a significant impact on you?

Laverne Anthony was a fantastic professor. As my student teaching evaluator and coach, she provided excellent feedback on my teaching lessons and observed me while teaching kindergarten. Her reviews were detailed and provided me with ways to change my instructional methods to better help my students.

Why would you recommend Point Park’s ABCTE program?

I would recommend Point Park's ABCTE program because it is an excellent way to become familiar with the teaching profession and achieve teaching certification in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Point Park's ABCTE program uses a hands-on approach focused on real classroom experience and prepares future teachers for their first year of teaching by familiarizing them with tools and skills they will use and incorporate into their classes. It offers a perfect pathway for working professionals who are interested in teaching careers.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

For children and students, the smallest things can make the biggest impact. Make your classroom feel like a home to your students because it makes them feel welcome and makes them feel excited to be in a space where they can see their ideas, interests and hobbies reflected in their learning.

History Alumnus Levi Donaldson Brown Returns to Point Park University for ABCTE Propel Teacher Residency Program Alumni Profile