Building Community, Inspiring Confidence: Meet Mrs. Guest 

At Coast to Mountains Preparatory Academy (CM Prep), Mrs. Guest brings three decades of experience – and just as much heart – to her virtual classroom. With 30 years of experience, her journey has taken her from a farm in northeastern Indiana to teaching students across grade levels and roles, including middle school English Language Arts, elementary school, and literacy coaching. 

“I have been teaching for 30 years!” she shares. After earning her undergraduate degree from Indiana University and her master’s from National Louis University, Mrs. Guest began her career at a laboratory school focused on best practices in education – a foundation that continues to shape her teaching today. 

A Passion Rooted in Experience 

Mrs. Guest’s path to teaching was shaped by both the exceptional educators who inspired her and the less supportive experiences that pushed her to do things differently. She set out to build a classroom where every student feels encouraged, respected, and valued – a commitment that has remained at the heart of her work ever since. 

“I genuinely enjoy working with children,” she shares. 

Creating Connection in a Virtual Classroom 

After many years in traditional classrooms, Mrs. Guestwas ready for something new. Teaching online offered just that – and more. 

“I loved the idea of taking on a new challenge. It has proven to be fantastic,” she says. “I especially love the community we have built in our 5th grade classroom. It’sharder to do when online, but not impossible!” 

Each day begins with intentional connection. From morning meetings filled with games and announcements to ongoing communication with families, Mrs. Guestprioritizes relationships.  

“Starting our day together is a great step toward making everyone feel like they belong,” she explains. 

Making Learning Come to Life 

Mrs. Guest’s classroom is more than just a room. She incorporates small group instruction, individualized support, and hands-on learning opportunities throughout the week. Her favorite? Project-based learning. 

“We dedicate Fridays to STEAM activities,” she says. Students build bridges, experiment with pendulums, and create projects using recycled materials. These experiences are not only engaging and fun, but they also provide opportunities for students who may not be traditionally academically motivated to excel.” 

Moments that Matter Most 

For Mrs. Guest, her inspiration comes from her students – especially in moments of vulnerability and growth. 

She recalls a recent social-emotional learning lesson when a typically quiet student hesitated to share, worried his ideas weren’t “good enough.” What followed was a powerful display of community.  

“His classmates flooded the chat with encouragement,” she says. “When he finally shared, they responded with genuine praise and support.” 

“Moments like these are what inspire me,” Mrs. Guest reflects. 

Through connection, creativity, and care, Mrs. Guest continues to shape a classroom where students feel seen, supported, and inspired to succeed – no matter where they’re learning. 

Is Online Learning Right for You?  

Explore Coast to Mountains Preparatory Academy and discover how our online private school offers a supportive, engaging, and academically rigorous learning environment for students in grades K-12. Click here to get started today! 

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