Jocelyn Booth has always had a passion for teaching, learning and helping others learn.

“As a teacher, it was working with young people helping them to read,” Booth said of the first time she realized she loved teaching.

“You know that moment of discovery where reading became something that was very interesting to a young student. (When) they felt it help them build their self confidence in becoming a fluent reader.”

The St. Charles resident was recently named an assistant professor of education and Master of Arts in Reading Instruction program and faculty chairwoman at Aurora University.

At the school, Booth looks to provide teachers with the tools to help their students and other teachers around them learn better. She said she wants to raise their level of understanding so they can be leaders.

“It’s a wonderful educational development process to be able to hone your own skills in teaching literacy within your classroom,” Booth said, “And then taking that step into leadership where you’re sharing what you know with all other professionals in your building.”

In the 22 years since Booth came to St. Charles, she said she has seen a progressive improvement in the Tri-Cities education systems. She said having a strong education system is imperative for a local community.

“I think it’s paramount,” Booth said.

Notable
Booth has been on the teaching and administrative side of education. She served as associate superintendent for educational services in Arlington Heights’ District 215 for many years.

& quotable
On her graduate students tutoring young students in reading: “I love it. It’s a perfect combination. Our graduate students are able to learn at a higher level with a direct application while helping young people within our community.”

Philosophy
“It’s providing a strong learning environment,” Booth said. “Holding high expectations for students and providing the opportunities for learning to take place.”

Favorites
SUBJECT FROM SCHOOL DAYS English and reading
BOOKS Shakespeare, authors in the field of reading
FOOD “Healthy food”
OTHER INTERESTS Photography, international travel