Meet Jasmina Toceva Dimitrieska
Professional Background
Kindergarten Teacher
Professional Background
Educator in Macedonia
District
Farmington Public School District
Certification
General Elementary
With over 12 years of teaching experience in Macedonia, Jasmina is now a certified educator in Michigan, teaching in a kindergarten classroom.
Jasmina Dimitrieska is an experienced educator from Macedonia who relocated to Michigan three years ago. After teaching for over twelve years in her home country, she aimed to continue her teaching career in the United States with the help of Talent Together. She is now teaching all subjects in a Kindergarten classroom at Wood Creek Elementary School.
What challenges did you face in becoming a teacher in Michigan?
Although I already had my bachelor’s degree, I needed to complete additional classes to obtain full certification. I was actively looking for ways to achieve this when I learned about Talent Together, which came to me at just the right moment.
Since completing the Talent Together program, how has your role in education/ your career changed?
Since completing the program, my role in education has grown in both confidence and impact. I have been able to apply the knowledge and strategies I gained to create a more engaging, student-centered classroom environment. By implementing research-based instructional practices, I have seen increased student participation, stronger problem-solving skills, and more meaningful learning experience for my students. The program also strengthened my ability to use data to inform instruction and differentiate learning to meet the diverse needs of my students. As a result, I feel more equipped to support all learners and foster a classroom culture that values collaboration, creativity, and growth.
How are you using what you learned through the Talent Together Apprenticeship in your classroom today?
I am actively using what I learned through the Talent Together Apprenticeship in my classroom each day. For example, I incorporate hands-on, interactive lessons that allow my kindergarten students to explore concepts through play, collaboration, and real-world connections. I also use ongoing observation and formative assessment to guide my instruction, which helps me differentiate activities to meet students at their individual levels. The apprenticeship strengthened my understanding of how to build strong relationships and create a positive classroom environment, so I prioritize social-emotional learning and clear routines to support student success.
Additionally, I apply strategies such as small group instruction, scaffolding, and intentional questioning to deepen student thinking and engagement. Overall, the program has helped me become more reflective and purposeful in my teaching, ensuring that my instruction is responsive, inclusive, and effective for all students.
Can you share your apprenticeship experience?
My mentor teacher, Genea Donato, has been incredibly supportive. She was always patient and willing to explain concepts, no matter how many times I asked. She provided me with hands-on classroom experience, allowing me to take full responsibility for teaching for a few months and giving me valuable feedback, which was instrumental in my development. I can’t say enough good things about her support.