Our Specials

	Founding Member Music & Suzuki Teacher Phyllis Smith Music brings such joy to life and the more we know and understand about music, the more we can appreciate what we are hearing. In classes we study composers, rhythm, melody, form and harmony, play instruments, listen and sing. Suzuki string lessons are offered to students of all ages. They provide opportunities for individual and group learning and performing in a variety of settings.

	Founding Member 5th & 6th Grade Teacher Vic Smith Working with fifth and sixth grade students is refreshing, inspiring, often surprising, and just plain fun. A renewed excitement for learning seems to emerge in eleven and twelve year old children, especially when they are encouraged to investigate topics in ways that interest them. I believe that all of our children are worthy of high, realistic and individualized expectations. I perceive the upper elementary years as a time that we can help mold each student’s innate desire to learn in a way that will help guide him or her through many years of self-directed and stimulating educational opportunities.

	Pre-K & K Teacher Katy Spiller   Early Childhood is a magical phase of life, the time when one sees the world through wide-open eyes.  It is this outlook on life that inspired me to teach at the early childhood level. Teaching is a passion of mine; there is nothing better than the look on a child’s face when introduced to new and exciting things.    I feel very strongly that a child’s first experience with school should be positive.  Every child has his or her own style of learning and growing, along with a uniquely wonderful personality and talents.  Each needs to be nurtured in a way that will benefit her or his very own being.  My purpose is to encourage children in their journeys, and find exciting and enjoyable ways to do so.  Children are ready to dive in.  It is my job to provide the pool.

	3rd & 4th Grade Teacher Gail Spinden My goals as a teacher are to help children build independence and personal power, as well as to teach subject matter and skills that students can use to solve problems. I am enthusiastic about teaching, especially science, and provide many hands on experiments so students can learn through discovery. I offer a small, caring classroom where students are empowered to assume responsibility for themselves and their learning. My greatest joy as a teacher is to guide students so they will feel valued for their unique learning styles.

	1st & 2nd Grade Teacher Shawn Stooksbury I love working with first and second graders. It is fun and exciting and never boring! The students are excited about learning and want to be challenged. I strive to create a warm, fun and safe learning environment that honors each student's individuality and learning style. My goal is to provide students with opportunities for learning hands-on, accepting responsibility and exercising their problem-solving skills. It is a true joy to watch the students grow as they pursue their academic and personal challenges.

	Pk/K Teacher Chris Johnson   Teaching the Pre-K and Kindergarten set is a heartwarming and soul-satisfying venture. Younger ages require developmentally appropriate practice, lots of individual attention, and it is essential that they derive meaningful enjoyment from their experience. I embrace each child's exuberance and energy and am delighted to work in an environment which cherishes each child's unique contributions.