Making It Real With Experiential Learning

December 7, 2022

When Kelly (Wood, ‘84) Finn, M.Ed., talks about transforming the way students learn, she exudes an excitement and enthusiasm that is infectious.

Finn has taught English at St. Teresa’s Academy since 2018 and was appointed Director of Experiential Learning in 2022. But that’s not when her passion for engaging students in the learning process started. After working in various roles as a marketing and events professional, she decided it was time to try something new. Finn tried her hand at teaching through substitute and paraprofessional work in a local public school. “My experience was that so many classes were involving students only in a passive manner – what I call, ‘Sit & Get,’” says Finn. “The students were uninspired and unengaged. After seeing what was happening in the classroom, I was determined to make a difference.”

She went on to earn her Master of Education degree at Rockhurst University and has never looked back. And, as her students over the last 18 years can attest, she has made a significant difference.

In addition to leading the experiential learning program and teaching English at STA, Finn has been responsible for leading STA’s Interim Week, which is a time between fall and spring semesters for students to innovate, create and discover through unique and immersive experiences. Students select from more than 30 courses that are taught by faculty and staff as well as alumnae, parents and even students themselves. Courses involve activities and education that provide a well-rounded learning experience. An example is, “Ignite Your Creative Side,” taught by STA junior Adelina L. and faculty member Andrea Skowronek. The course is designed to help students learn about influential artists such as Vincent Van Gogh to Marc Davis while using the supplies and techniques they were known for using in their creations, allowing students to explore new mediums and learn art history at the same time.

Interim Week is just one part of the experiential learning program that makes STA unique. “This type of learning has become embedded in STA’s culture,” Finn says. “Our faculty are now looking under every rock for opportunities to create fully engaging experiences. Every single day, someone approaches me with another idea that is truly innovative. And here, we’re empowered to implement those ideas.”

Finn’s rubric for experiential learning involves three aspects:

  • Sit and Get, which describes the traditional method of learning
  • Make and Take, which involves activities to inspire engagement
  • Apply and Evolve, which combines learnings with actual application in real life

Her vision for experiential learning is big, and it is bold. And, while Finn says it is helpful to have a person such as herself who’s dedicated to experiential learning, the responsibility is shared by everyone at STA. “My colleagues are in this with me one hundred percent. Collectively, we have put STA ahead of the curve. It distinguishes our school and, best of all, inspires and empowers our students to explore, innovate and become tomorrow’s leaders.”

Kelly Finn, M.Ed., STA Director of Experiential Learning