The UTeach Induction Fellowship Program is a prestigious initiative designed to recognize and support distinguished alumni who are currently teaching in their first five years. 

Heather Harris

Crockett Early College High School (Austin ISD)

Science Teacher Biology (9th grade), Forensic Science(11/12th grade), Science Department Chair

What’s one self-care practice that helps you recharge outside of the classroom?

Teaching is a social job, and I am an introvert. Going to work every day is draining, so I need time alone to recharge. With that in mind, I am intentional about my schedule. I have firm working hours and I don’t take work home with me. Also, I schedule exercise 2-3 times per week, and make sure there is room in my schedule for photography sessions. It is important to make time for hobbies, so your entire identity doesn’t become your job.

Share a highlight of your teaching journey that keeps you motivated.

I do regular grade checks with my students, showing them where they are and what they need to do. One of these times, I visited a student with a high 80. Their grade shocked them. This student told me they had never done so well in a science class before. They didn’t think they could do well in science until my class. That just filled my heart. I strive to find as many of those students as I can each year, and show them they can do well in harder subjects.

 Favorite Quote:

Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood -Marie Curie

I love this quote, because it reminds me to keep learning new things, even when they are hard or scary.