Our featured teacher is Sandy Craig! Sandy graduated from the University of Florida with a BS in Telecommunications with a specialization in Operations. Following graduation, she enrolled at Florida Atlantic University where she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BA. E in Elementary Education. She has taught in Georgia and Florida for 14 years and loves working with early elementary students.
Where do you teach?
University Preparatory Academy
What grade/age do you teach?
Kindergarten!
How long have you been a teacher?
I’ve been teaching for 14 years.
What subject do you teach?
I teach all core subjects: Reading, Writing, Math, Science, and Social Studies.
Why were you inspired to teach?
My 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Alexander, made learning fun! She inspired me to create a classroom that cultivates a safe and welcoming environment that facilitates learning while encouraging students to think independently.
What is your favorite part of the school day?
My favorite part of the school day is the “morning check-in.” This time provides an opportunity for one-on-one conferencing with students to discuss goals for the day, upcoming projects or assignments, and allows students time to share anything else on their minds.
Do you have a favorite assignment/ project that you typically assign your students?
I am a huge proponent of Project Based Learning which provides students with the opportunity to actively engage in meaningful projects to develop knowledge and skills on a particular topic. One of my favorite projects is a wrap-up activity based on “The Three Little Pigs.” Students select a pig from the fairy tale, design and build a secure “wolf proof” house and test their house to see if it withstands the wind. This project can easily be adapted to meet the needs of individual learners across grade levels.
How do you wind down from a long day of teaching?
Going to the gym and reading a good book are my favorite ways to wind down!
What hobbies do you enjoy?
I enjoy participating in Spartan obstacle races and other 10K races, growing bonsai trees, fostering animals, reading and CrossFit!
Share a funny teaching moment.
In the middle of a math lesson a student pulls out a plum and starts eating it. I asked what he’s eating, and he said nothing (while taking a bite out of the plum). I gently remind him that it’s not snack time yet and he needs to put it away. His response was “It’s not a snack. It’s a vegetable.”
If you were a superhero, who would you be?
If I were a superhero, I would be Wonder Woman because she is a strong and caring person, stands up for those who cannot do so for themselves, and because she believes in the good of every person.
What is your favorite book?
“Oh, The Places You Will Go” by Dr. Seuss is my favorite book because it encourages people to develop their individuality and to follow their dreams.
What are you looking forward to on the first day of school?
Meeting my amazing students!
If you could share 3 pieces of advice to parents about how to make the first week of school the best it can be, what would you tell them?
- Make a point to meet your child’s teacher — your child’s education is a partnership between home and school and it’s important to have open communication!
- Practice routines (bedtime, getting ready for school, homework, etc.) and discuss the general expectations for the first few days of school.
- Read to your child (or have them read to you!) every day and talk with your child about their school day!