On March 3, 2025, Sarah Edmonds-Cubbage joined the MLK Family as a student teacher in Mrs. Karam’s First-Grade class. Before coming to MLK, she completed a third-grade placement at Kernan Elementary with Mrs. Wilson.

Sarah is no stranger to the Utica City School District. She attended Watson Williams Elementary, Donovan Middle School, and graduated from Thomas R. Proctor High School in 2021. While at Donovan Middle School, Sarah was a member of the Young Scholars, which she maintained throughout high school and still attends events at Utica University. Currently, she is enrolled at Utica University with an anticipated graduation date of May 9, 2025. Upon graduation, she will have a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology-Child Life/ Early Childhood/Childhood Education, allowing her to look for employment as an Elementary Teacher.

Some of the first-grade students sat down with Miss Cubbage and asked her some questions.

What do you like to do when you are not at school with us?

I’m very close with my grandma, so on Sundays, I love visiting her to read the Bible, chat, and paint her nails. My friends and family bring me a great sense of peace and comfort, and I truly enjoy spending time with them. In addition, I’m passionate about reading—especially mystery novels or books that are motivational and teach me new skills.

Why do want to be a teacher?

From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I loved playing school with my friends, and even when I played alone, I would gather my stuffed animals, treating them like students and running a classroom. What truly solidified my desire to teach was a conversation with my 7th-grade social studies teacher, who told me, "You really think I wanted to be a teacher?" As I sat there, reflecting on how he wasn’t the most enthusiastic teacher and seemed to have settled into his job, I realized that I didn’t want to feel that way. I wanted to be different. I wanted to be the kind of teacher who was passionate and genuinely cared about making a difference. I always dreamed of being the teacher I wished I had as a kid, and that vision has been my driving force. It always felt natural, like the right path for me.

Did you like 3rd grade or 1st grade better?

I preferred 1st grade over 3rd because it's the grade level where many foundational reading skills are developed. I've noticed that reading can be a struggle for many children, and being in a position to make a significant impact brings me great joy. I feel that, as a teacher, I have the opportunity to lay the groundwork for my students' future success.

Will you come back to our class again?

I would love the opportunity to return! I truly enjoyed being in your class and learning from Mrs. Karam. I also appreciate the diversity of the school and the innovative programs you've implemented here.