Mrs. Cunningham's First Grade
Hello,
My name is Mrs. Maria Cunningham and this is my first grade web page.
I am so excited to be your child's teacher this year! We are going to have a great many adventures as we get to know one another, explore topics, and acquire new skills. I believe students learn through experience and problem solving activities. I keep my students excited about learning with infectious energy to pursue new subject matter. I plan to create that love of learning this year! To get started, let me tell you a little about myself, how our classroom will be structured, and my beliefs.
Teaching has been my passion for the past sixteen years as I have taught here in Melrose, at another Catholic school on the north shore, tutored, and taught summer school math. I graduated from the University of Vermont with Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy and from Lesley University with a Masters in Elementary Education. A little trivia about me is I was born in Germany when my father was in the Army but haven't been there since I was 3 months old. I love to kayak, cross-country ski, do yoga, and garden. Being an avid reader,
I belong to a monthly book club. I am married with two grown children and a dog.
Our classroom will have an interdisciplinary curriculum with the incorporation of centers, manipulatives, and small group learning. In my classroom students will have access and opportunities to read independently, in guided reading groups, and through buddy reading. To provide an increased number of literacy opportunities I believe reading and writing must be done throughout the curriculum to increase understanding of math, social studies, and science concepts. Technology will be incorporated into the classroom to provide direct instruction, differentiated individualized curriculum, and learning centers. We will use both the Smartboard and iPads.
I believe in creating an atmosphere of respect between the teacher and students. Students will be encouraged to share the responsibility for the management of the classroom, including having a weekly job. They will be expected to treat each other and myself with respect and kindness. I feel that it is essential for the teacher to demonstrate care and concern for each child as well as provide a classroom environment that is safe and emotionally secure.
As a teacher, I feel it is important to get to know each student as a person in addition to knowing his or her academic needs. I want to work closely together to find what will work best for your child. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me and I will respond as soon as possible.
Together we can have an awesome year and soar to new heights!
Please come and visit this site often for news, daily homework., pictures, and curriculum up-dates.
Sincerly,
Mrs. Maria Cunningham
