Hello! The "quintessential teacher" is my husband's way of describing me after patiently tolerating 20 years of daily stories, struggles and triumphs about teaching. I am a recent (early) retiree from the Philadelphia School District where I taught 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students for 22 years. Despite leaving the classroom, I don't think I'll ever be finished with teaching!
I have dual PA teaching certification in Early Childhood/Elementary Education (K-8)from Temple University (where I put myself through school working as a freelance editor for Temple University Press). I have also tutored several adult immigrants in basic English, Reading and Writing. I'm experienced teaching students with ADD, Asperger's, and dyslexia.
My favorite subjects to teach are Social Studies/History, Reading/Literature, and Writing, but I have taught all elementary subjects and successfully prepared many students for proficiency on standardized tests (Citywide Benchmarks, TerraNova, PSSA). I use a variety of methods in my teaching: role play/drama, puzzles, mnemonic devices, games, writing challenges, Internet scavenger hunts, etc. I've used computer-based learning in my classroom for many years and can teach the basics of Word and PowerPoint. I'm familiar with a mother lode of excellent websites for practicing skills and learning content.
I dearly love working with students in small groups or individually. I am known for making learning fun and for using creative ways to make even the most mundane topics come to life. I've received several citywide awards for my Service Learning Projects and understand the importance of connecting learning to real life problem solving.
I've learned many things from my students over the years. First and foremost, I know that in order to learn, students need to truly believe that they CAN learn. I believe that building pride and self discipline through instruction is essential. I've had a reputation throughout my career of being able to get through to the most challenged students, and for never giving up on them. I've influenced die-hard book haters to beg for another book, and anti-writers to write entire books!
I'd love to be able to help you and/or your child learn!
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