Meet our dedicated kindergarten teacher, Ms. Sabrina Avery, who embodies the school’s mission and values in every aspect of her teaching philosophy. Ms. Avery became a teacher driven by a profound desire to lay a strong foundation for students' knowledge and to create a dynamic, engaging, and interactive learning experience for children. She firmly believes that a solid educational foundation is essential for a child's future success, and is passionate about imparting knowledge in a way that is both enjoyable and meaningful. Her goal is to foster a love for learning by making the classroom a vibrant and stimulating environment, where curiosity is encouraged, questions are valued, and creativity knows no bounds. Ms. Avery aspires to inspire a lifelong passion for education in her students, helping them grow academically and personally, and empowering them to reach their full potential.
Ms. Avery’s teaching philosophy revolves around the belief that active, hands-on, and engaging learning experiences are pivotal for student growth and understanding. She views the classroom as a dynamic space where students should not just absorb information, but also actively participate in the learning process. She firmly believes that when students are actively engaged in their learning, they become more curious, motivated, and receptive to new ideas. Through hands-on learning, Ms. Avery aims to instill a lifelong love for learning and critical thinking skills, preparing her students not just for exams, but also for real-world challenges where creativity and problem-solving are invaluable.
Activities such as the M&M addition, science experiments, STEM building projects, and sensory learning experiences are just a few of the hands-on activities that her students participate in. The M&M addition not only teaches math but also turns a basic arithmetic exercise into a colorful and delicious adventure, making learning irresistible. Science experiments foster a sense of wonder and curiosity about the natural world, while STEM-building projects promote problem-solving skills and teamwork. Sensory learning engages multiple senses, enhancing memory retention and understanding. These activities not only make learning fun but also provide a deeper, experiential understanding of concepts. The excitement and enthusiasm Ms. Avery witnesses during these projects affirm that hands-on learning is not just effective but essential in shaping active, eager, and confident learners in her classroom.
One of Ms. Avery’s most cherished teaching memories involves taking her students on enriching field trips, especially to places like the Minnesota Children’s Museum, where learning extends beyond the classroom walls. Watching her students explore exhibits, Ms. Avery saw their eyes light up with curiosity and wonder. The museum setting provided a unique opportunity for them to apply classroom knowledge to real-life situations, solve problems, and work collaboratively. As they navigated interactive exhibits, tackled challenges, and asked insightful questions, Ms. Avery witnessed their confidence grow. These field trips not only expanded their understanding of the world but also encouraged them to think critically, fostering a love for learning that extended far beyond the confines of textbooks.
In her kindergarten classroom, Ms. Avery is dedicated to nurturing a growth mindset among her young learners. She emphasizes the importance of effort, perseverance, and embracing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Through encouraging words and positive reinforcement, she celebrates not only students’ successes but also their efforts and strategies. When faced with difficulties, Ms. Avery promotes the idea that mistakes are natural and valuable steps in the learning process. By fostering a safe environment where taking risks is encouraged, Ms. Avery teaches her students that their abilities can be developed with dedication and hard work
Teaching kindergarten has been an incredibly rewarding experience for Ms. Avery, and what she finds most fulfilling is witnessing the remarkable journey of each student as they develop and embrace their unique personalities. In the kindergarten classroom, Ms. Avery has the privilege of observing young minds as they explore the world, ask endless questions, and express themselves in their distinct ways. Every day, she is amazed by the resilience, curiosity, and creativity of her students. As they learn and grow, she cherishes the moments when their personalities shine through – whether it's a shy child finding their voice, a quiet student expressing their thoughts, or a naturally curious mind delving into the wonders of the world.
Ms. Avery is deeply committed to aligning her teaching practices with the school's mission, values, and Catholic principles. She integrates the school's mission by fostering a nurturing environment where every child is valued, respected, and encouraged to reach their full potential academically, socially, and spiritually. Embracing the school's values, Ms. Avery emphasizes the importance of empathy, kindness, and respect among her students. Through age-appropriate activities and discussions, she teaches them the value of integrity, honesty, and the significance of community. Additionally, she infuses Catholic values into their daily routine by incorporating prayers, stories, and moral lessons that highlight compassion, forgiveness, and love for one another. By instilling these values from an early age, Ms. Avery aims to create a classroom atmosphere where students not only excel academically but also grow into compassionate, responsible, and empathetic individuals, reflecting the core teachings of the Catholic faith.
Ms. Avery believes that collaboration with fellow teachers is integral to creating shared goals and values in St. Francis School’s young learners. Ms. Avery engages in regular team meetings and open dialogues to align her teaching approaches and curricula with that of other teaching staff. Together, they establish common values, such as respect, empathy, and a love for learning, which they collectively model and reinforce in their classrooms. This collaborative effort extends beyond their subject areas, aiming to create a supportive and holistic environment that nurtures the social, emotional, and academic growth of students.
Being a part of the St. Francis School community is incredibly fulfilling, and what Ms. Avery cherishes the most is the sense of belonging and shared commitment to nurturing young minds. The collaborative spirit among colleagues, the supportive parents, and the enthusiasm of her students make each day meaningful. Ms. Avery’s overall mission as a kindergarten teacher is to create a learning environment where curiosity thrives, and where every child feels valued and capable. Witnessing their growth, not just academically, but also as compassionate individuals, is profoundly rewarding. Ms. Avery’s aim is to lay a strong foundation for their future, ensuring they step into the world with confidence, curiosity, and a deep understanding of their potential.