My name is Elena, and I am a first-grade teacher in suburban Iowa. I hold a degree in Elementary Education with endorsements in K–8 mathematics, K–8 reading, and 5–8 algebra. Prior to entering the classroom, I served as a one-on-one reading tutor for elementary-aged students, where I provided targeted instruction in the core components of literacy: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. This experience strengthened my ability to differentiate instruction and meet...
My name is Elena, and I am a first-grade teacher in suburban Iowa. I hold a degree in Elementary Education with endorsements in K–8 mathematics, K–8 reading, and 5–8 algebra. Prior to entering the classroom, I served as a one-on-one reading tutor for elementary-aged students, where I provided targeted instruction in the core components of literacy: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. This experience strengthened my ability to differentiate instruction and meet students where they are at.
My teaching philosophy is that all students can learn when provided with explicit instruction, meaningful engagement, and a supportive environment. I strive to build confident, independent, lifelong learners by creating a culture that emphasizes a growth mindset, persistence, and curiosity.
I bring a strong background in movement and the arts to my teaching. I spent seven years as a gymnastics coach and am currently in my fifth year teaching dance, working with children ages three through adulthood. These experiences have deeply influenced my instructional approach. I believe in the power of kinesthetic learning and intentionally incorporate movement and music into my lessons to enhance engagement, support memory, and meet diverse learning needs. By blending academics with movement, I aim to create a dynamic learning environment where all students feel motivated, capable, and excited to learn.
