I thought it would be helpful to introduce myself to my new students and their families.
In First Grade
I was born in California and lived there until sixth grade. I knew I wanted to become a teacher ever since I was in the first grade. My dad worked for the airlines so, as a child, I had the privilege to travel around the world. My favorite place I had the opportunity to visit was Athens, Greece.
Mr. and Mrs. Thonus
I graduated from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) with my teaching degree and was very enthusiastic about my new career. I married my high school sweetheart right after college graduation. We have been married for 33 years and have 3 boys: Joe, 28, Chris, 26, Mike, 24, 2 wonderful daughters-in-law, and a beautiful 2 year old granddaughter with more grandchildren on the way!
Joe, Chris, Mike
They are all wonderful gentlemen and are attending college right now. I am very proud of them.
We moved to Cape Cod over 20 years ago and have enjoyed living on this beautiful peninsula.
We have three funny and friendly cats. They are so cute!
I have taught first through third grades in Massachusetts and New Jersey for over 25 years. I am now teaching third grade and loving it!!! Marstons Mills East HMCS is an outstanding school and a fantastic place to work.
Marstons Mills East Horace Mann Charter School
My favorite subjects to teach are math, science, and writing. My best teaching days are when a student finally "gets it" after lots of hard work, risk taking, perseverance, and courage.
Personal responsibility is a huge theme in my classroom. I believe that students need to be their own "teachers" with me as their coach. I let them know that they will learn nothing unless they invest their own effort and attention (no matter how hard the "coach" works).
"Thinking outside of the box," is appreciated in my classroom. Parent involvement is strongly encouraged at home and in the classroom. Parents are their child's best, lifelong teachers and encouragers.
My hobbies are reading, web site design, and camping. Other activities that I enjoy are singing in a trio and volunteering for the Chatham A's Cape League baseball team. I have been a Star Trek fan since 1966 and love watching the TV series and movies.
Star Trek Federation Flag
Some other FAVORITES are:
Children's books: The BFG by Roald Dahl and The Cricket in Times Square by George Seldon
Food: potato chips and onion dip, artichokes, tacos
Music: Country Western, Yanni, Contemporary Christian
Animals: dolphins, cats, and frogs
Quote: "To teach is to touch a life forever."
Experiences: becoming a mom and being a contestant on "Wheel of Fortune"
Role Model: my dad
Country: USA (of course!)
The music is "I Left My Heart in San Fransisco" from http://www.harrythecat.com
