Get to know the newest Math teacher at SHS

BY CHLOE LANE, STAFF WRITER

The Spartan Times introduces a new series, The Teacher Feature, to share with our readers more insight on the teachers who lead us each day.

Kailee Colbeth is one of the new teachers who has joined us here at SHS this year. Here’s some information and fun facts you may not have known about her:

Tell us a little bit about yourself:

I grew up in Downeast Maine, about 30 minutes from the easternmost point of the United States. I attended Washington Academy for High School then went on to attend Clarkson University for a year and then the University of Maine at Machias.

My family moved to Scarborough almost 3 years ago. I live with my husband, Brent, our two daughters, Hannah (12), and Emily (9), and our cat, Mina.

If you could describe yourself in 3 words what would they be?

Kind, patient, and funny (though if you ask my students they may not agree with the last one).

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I like to watercolor paint, and I’m slowly teaching myself woodworking with the help of YouTube. I still have all 10 fingers!

What is your favorite and least favorite part about living and teaching in Maine?

My favorite part of living in Maine is that it is a safe place for my children to grow up. We have access to such natural beauty around us! My least favorite thing about living in Maine is definitely blackflies!

What made you want to become a teacher?

[In] my 7th-grade year, I had an amazing math teacher. He made math make sense – but didn’t just teach us, he showed us how things worked the way they did. I first saw how beautiful math was, and from then on wanted to become a teacher so I could give my students that same feeling.

Where else have you taught? 

I have previously taught at Washington Academy in East Machias and Thornton Academy in Saco.

If you could teach one other subject, what would it be?

I have always taught Math. I have taught all levels from PreAlgebra to AP Calculus. I think if I could teach one other subject it would be Spanish. I spent a month in Nicaragua when I was a Junior in high school.

What do you like about teaching at SHS? Is there anything you dislike about it?

I love the students and staff here at SHS! It feels like I have been here longer than a year because everyone has been so welcoming.

Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know?

I LOVE bad math jokes. Please stop by my classroom, D217, and share any and all of your math jokes! Also, my husband and I traveled to Prague, Czech Republic in 2018. I can’t wait for my next European trip!