Hello,

This year, we are the $wag team.  I teach 8th grade language arts in Room 1514.  I facilitate students' growth in oral and written expression of English by providing instruction in grammar, punctuation, reading, writing, speaking, and listening to help students form a foundation that will help them to be successful in high school, college, and beyond.  We'll read and discuss books in literature circles and Socratic Circles.  Students will work cooperatively and learn from each other.  During "Book Talk," an after-reading activity, students will be able to socialize (they love that), eat (they love that, too), and discuss (they don't particularly like this part, but, it's the purpose of the get-together, so we must focus on the book being discussed) their book with other students.  Students give a brief review of the book they read along with their recommendation and any insight they've gleaned from reading the book.

I've taught in Prince William County for eight years now.  I was the yearbook sponsor for one year. I've acted in the capacity of Effective School-wide Discipline (ESD) Coach for three years, and as co-sponsor for the Parkside Writing Club for three years.  This school year (2011-2012), I am sponsoring the Writing Club along with Ms. Mente.

My instructional goal for the 2011-2012 school year is to help my students attain mastery of the 8th grade SOL objectives by passing the Reading and Writing SOL tests; thereby, teaching them the skills necessary to be active learners beyond their middle school years. I'd be delirious if 100% of my students pass the Reading and Writing SOLs this year.  For the 2010-2011 school year, 93% of my students passed the Writing SOL, and 85 % passed the Reading SOL.  I am confident that all my students can be successful, so I invite all parents and guardians to partner with me for a successful school year.