I have taught in a Title I school in Georgia for the past 6 years. I taught 4th grade my first three years and then transitioned down to 3rd grade after that. Prior to that, I babysat, nannied, and worked at multiple daycare centers and summer camps.
I always say my goal is to teach in an entirely project-based manner, but six years in I still haven't achieved that goal. Currently, I run my core subjects in a workshop style. In reading, we have transitioned to Daily 5 (after much contemplation and trying of many different methods), and we do center rotations in math. I feel that my style is still being defined at this point, but I do know that my kids LOVE coming to school and enjoy the activities we do in class.
I participated in a three year Teaching American History grant, that was funded by the US Department of Education. This grant provided me with invaluable experiences and resources for teaching American history at the elementary level.
I grew up in Iowa, where I absolutely loved school. I think I've wanted to be a teacher since the day I started pre-school. Around middle school, I moved to Georgia where I completed my education. I attended the University of Georgia (GO DAWGS!), where I received both a bachelor's and master's degree in Early Childhood Education. I love participating in professional development, and I feel that I am constantly learning and trying to improve my craft.
I share a home with my husband and two wonderful dogs. My husband is an the Army, so our lives are a little unstable at the moment. I love to read (both children's books and adult literature), and I'm a sucker for the show "Parenthood." I love penguins, but not quite as much as my students think I do. In April, we welcomed our baby daughter, Merit, into the world. She has been a blessing every single day, and I am loving my new role as mom.
PreK, Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th
English Language Arts, Grammar, Spelling, Specialty, Math, Algebra, Arithmetic, Basic Operations, Geometry, Graphing, Science, Earth Sciences, Environment, Social Studies, Ancient History, Civics, Government, U.S. History, European History, Math Test Prep, Geography, Other (Social Studies), Classroom Management, Economics , Holidays/Seasonal, Back to School, Mental Math, Halloween, Informational Text, Phonics