Lexi (Kurugian) Samuelian, B.A. ’17, M.A. ’18, recently earned National Board Certification as an Early Childhood Generalist, joining a select group of educators nationwide. At Chapman University, she completed both her bachelor’s degree and Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction through Attallah College’s Integrated Degree options. Samuelian now teaches first grade in the Los Angeles area, where she builds classrooms grounded in respect, patience, and high expectations.

“This accomplishment means so much to me personally because I proved to myself that I really can achieve anything I set my mind to,” Samuelian said. “Professionally, it allows me to give back by mentoring new teachers—just as many of my Chapman professors inspired me.” 

The National Board process required Samuelian to analyze classroom video, gather student work samples and demonstrate how her instruction improved learning outcomes. While the four-part assessment looked daunting at first, she approached it with a detailed plan and discovered that each task sharpened her instructional decisions. 

Samuelian says Attallah College laid the foundation for that reflective mindset. Courses emphasized culturally responsive teaching, data-informed instruction, and the importance of community partnerships. “The classes taught me the content,” she explained, “but more importantly, how to teach it.” 

A turning point in her career came when a student labeled as ‘difficult’ arrived midway through the school year. Samuelian offered a fresh start, listened to his concerns, and provided consistent support.  

“He went from frequent disruptions to becoming the top student in the class,” she recalled. “Seeing his transformation reminded me that I can make a lasting difference.” 

Six years of commuting up to 90 minutes each way have not dimmed her enthusiasm. The daily reward, she says, is watching students leave her room smiling and confident.  

Dean Roxanne Greitz Miller was Samuelian’s advisor when she was a student at Chapman, and shared, “Lexi was the kind of student who analyzed what she was doing on each assignment and was deeply thoughtful about her practice. She didn’t just ‘do what others did’ – she wanted to know the why behind every decision and wasn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. This is what makes her a great teacher today, and I am so proud of her becoming National Board certified.” 

For new graduates preparing to step into their own classrooms, Samuelian offers two pieces of advice: build a strong support network and extend grace to yourself as a learner.  

“Teachers are learning every day right alongside their students,” she said. “Celebrate your wins, seek guidance when you need it and remember why you chose this profession—your students.”