What Makes the McKay School Unique?

Kamora Shelton Johnson

McKay Student Ambassador

Physical Education

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When I was a freshman walking around the major fair, trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life, I came across PE Teaching/Coaching and decided to give it a shot. I quickly realized that the McKay School was different. Every one of my professors were genuinely happy, took the time to learn my name, and made me feel like part of a family. I joined the PE teaching program because I wanted to help others learn to love being active, but I stayed, even when things got hard, because of the relationships I built with the other students and the Christlike example of my professors. There are plenty of places you can go to become a teacher, but the McKay School is truly unique, and I wouldn’t trade my experience here for anything.

My favorite aspect of the McKay School is the focus on Christ as the Master Teacher. In our classes, we are taught to teach like Jesus Christ and to use Him as our example in everything we do. We are also taught to see each child as a divine son or daughter of God with infinite potential and a divine worth. That mindset completely changed the way I thought of teaching. 

I love this Christ-centered perspective because it gives my teaching more meaning. It’s not just about helping kids learn skills, pass tests or finish assignments, it’s also about helping them feel valued, seen, and loved. It helps me feel closer to Christ as I try to love the students I teach and will teach the way He would. Every child is a child of God with a bright future, and I feel so grateful that I get to be a part of helping them realize that. I love that at the McKay School, we are learning how to teach in a way that lifts others and brings light into their lives.

One of the coolest things about the McKay School is how much people care about each other. The classes are smaller, so professors know your name and want to help you succeed. In the past, if I was sick or missed a few days one of my classmates would always reach out to see where I’ve been. Things like this seem so small but they make a big difference. I mentioned earlier I feel like this school is a family and I truly believe it! Everyone is friendly and supportive and I feel Christ's love for me through them. There’s a real feeling of teamwork and kindness, which makes it easier to learn and become confident in my own teaching.

While the McKay School teaches us to follow the example of the Master Teacher, we also learn the latest research and technology to help us teach this generation in the best way possible. Our professors make sure we’re not only prepared spiritually, but also practically. I’ve had classes on how to design fun and engaging lessons that keep students excited to learn, how to integrate technology in meaningful ways, and how to best teach and include students with special needs so every child feels supported.

We don’t just talk about good teaching, we also practice it. We get real experience in schools and have constant opportunities to improve our skills with feedback and support. The education I’ve received so far at the McKay School has given me the confidence that I could walk into my own classroom and be able to teach and I still have a full year left of learning before I graduate! I’m excited for the rest of my classes, and I know the preparation I’m receiving now will help me make a real difference in my future students' lives.

The school is named after David O. McKay, who was both a prophet and a teacher. He believed that teaching is one of the most important and influential jobs in the world. That spirit still lives on in the McKay School today, which is why its core message is titled “For the Benefit of the World.” At the McKay School, learning is seen as life-giving, it’s what inspires students to serve in meaningful careers and motivates faculty to lead, teach, and live the gospel. We are reminded every day that every person is a child of God with divine potential, and that makes this school truly unique.

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If you’ve ever thought about becoming a teacher or if you’re just curious about what makes the McKay School so special there are so many ways to get involved. You can take an intro class, attend a McKay School event, or schedule a meeting here with one of the student ambassadors. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you explore the different majors the McKay School offers!