Christine Squier is a Marian University School of Education faculty member and Director of Indianapolis Teaching Fellows (ITF) and Teach for America (TFA) at Marian. She coordinates masters level licensure and coursework for both ITF and TFA, and instructs students while they complete their masters theses. She has come a long way in life, both geographically and professionally.
Christine is originally from Markham, Ontario, which is just north of Toronto. She came to the U.S. to attend I.U. as an undergraduate, and completed her Master’s degree at Butler University. After completing college, she taught at Harcourt Elementary; during her Master’s program, she became Assistant Principal at Greenbriar Elementary. She held her position at Greenbriar for 2 years, then became Principal of Lincoln Elementary, which she held for 5 years. She was then a part-time curriculum director for 5 years.
Christine came to Marian University when Sue Blackwell, the former Education Department Chair, offered her a position as a college supervisor for student teachers. She enjoyed that experience so much that she was delighted to start teaching classroom management and take over the coordinating duties for the student teaching program. “I love working with teachers to try and help them become the best they can be.” In 2006, when Marian started the ITF program, Christine was selected as its director.
Christine’s philosophy of education is that, “All students can and will learn given the right atmosphere and opportunities. Students need to be challenged and feel a sense of accomplishment in order to internalize learning. This all needs to be done in a well-structured, nurturing environment where everyone feels part of a bigger picture.” Her advice to new teachers is to relax, and to reflect both while planning for the school day and after the school day is over. “I have found that the best teachers love kids, love teaching, and are extremely good at self-evaluation.”
Personal Mission
“It is my personal mission to always be honest, kind, and optimistic about the future. I strive to do what is right and just, and be a positive role model to others. My personal values lead me to serve my family, community and self in all that I do.”
Grants and Awards
- Tipton County Foundation LEGO Robotics Grant Recipient, 1997
- Connected Learning Assures Student Success (CLASS) Grant Recipient, 1996
- Serve and Learn America Grant Recipient, 1995
- Indiana Reading Conference Grant Recipient, 1993
- Technology 2000 Grant Recipient, 1992
- Indiana 2000 School Designation and Grant, 1992
- Washington Township Sallie Mae Award Winner, 1991
Activities and Associations
- President of Village Dance Parent’s Council
- Indiana Principal’s Leadership Academy
- Member of the School Reform Leadership Institute
- Indiana Association of School Principals
- Principals’ Technology Leadership Training
- Guest Lecturer at Butler University
- Pleasant View PTO Board Member
- Zionsville Education Association Volunteer
- Junior Achievement Coordinator
- Member of Phi Delta Kappa
- Member of Phi Mu Social Fraternity
- Zionsville Youth Soccer Association Coach