Introducing+Mrs.+Saunders**

**Who is Mrs. Saunders?**

I am a dedicated teacher who loves learning, life, and people. I received my Masters in Education from Boston University and a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration from University of Masachusetts.

As a life long learner, I have taken numerous courses, workshops to stay current in the teachng profession. Most recently over the past five years, I have completed 10 graduate courses at the University of Delaware. These courses range from Reading & Literature, Economics & Entrapreneurship, Technology Infusion in the Clssroom, and LoTi - Levels of Thinking Innovation. I am also proud yet humble that I was voted Teacher of the Year last year!

In addition to our high energy classroom - my ever ready battery continues to run as I seve in many other roles at BSS, ie. 3rd grade Team Leader, Professional Development Team, Health and Fitness Committee, Earth Day, District Academy Team, and many other roles throughout the year along with my fellow dedicated colleagues at Brandywine Springs.

My teaching style is stimulating in that, I consistently strive to present material in a relevant fashion so students can understand why their learning is important to them as individuals and how their learning can empower them to be the best that they can be as it forges them into exciting new challenges.

The Third grade is a transition year. In the beginning of the year, the students come knowing how to read, write, and do basic computation. Then we begin to "stretch" by ways of comprehension sttrategies, writing pieces with six traits, and learning math strategies or “magic formulas” to apply to real world problems. The Sciences and Social Studies will draw the students from a micro focus to the overall macro-global picture and appreciation. They will see throughout the year how one person, such as themselves, can touch the lives of many.

Personally, I have three lovely daughters. They are in the 8th (HB), 11th (CSW), and first year of college. I have a wonderfully loyal dog, a black lab/golden retreiver mix, named Princess. Oops! I can’t leave out the other pets we have previously enjoyed the companionship of; such as - rabbits, gerbels, and fish. For hobbies, I like to play the piano, paint, do various crafts, go hiking, and kayaking.

I hope this gives you some insight and feel for my background. I’d be happy to discuss any questions you may have regarding curriculum, methodologies, or special needs or requirements for your child. Please contact me through the school e-mail at sonia.saunders@redclay.k12.de.us.

Thank you. I look forward to an exciting new year!

Mrs. Saunders