Mrs.+Spielman

Welcome to 6th Grade Technology, Global Studies


 * Dear Students and Parents, **


 * Welcome to an exciting year! I’m looking forward to getting to know you, and starting on our adventure together. I am so excited that you are our in our classroom. Without you as a student, the year would not be complete. I plan on you bringing unique talents and opinions as well as a positive attitude, a willingness to try new things, and the ability to work hard every day with you to school. We are also privileged to have Mrs. Thieleman from MSU to work with us for the year. **

**I can’t wait to get started! **
 * This is my sixth year with Owosso Public Schools, but the argument could be made that I have been with the district my whole life. I grew up in Owosso and went to Central School, Owosso Junior High, and then Owosso High. My very best memories of high school surround marching in the Trojan Marching Band. After high school I went to Central Michigan University, worked in business for 6 years and when I was 28 decided to become a teacher. I recently completed my Master's of Educational Technology degree at Michigan State University. While working in business, I lived in the Detroit area, Minneapolis, MN, and Okemos. I traveled all over the country but ultimately decided that Owosso has always been home. I have a three-year-old daughter, a one-year-old son, and I love the idea of raising my family in Shiawassee County. **


 * As a teacher it is important to me that the curriculum and learning are student driven within the State Grade Level Content Expectations. As a teacher I see my role as a coach, rather than a director. Units are focused on choice and allow for students to pursue individual interests as much as possible. Students are empowered to take responsibility for their own learning. As a teacher, I see it to be my responsibility to nurture students that will become lifelong learners. Teacher support is scaffolded based on student level and need within individual lessons. The range of assessment strategies used meets the diverse needs of students, and encourages creative and critical thinking. Time is given daily for students to reflect on tasks, and consider alternatives for future improvement. **


 * We are going to be a great team, and keeping the International Baccalaureate principals in mind, if you can strive to be a reflective, caring, curious, open-minded, principled and balanced learner we are going to explore and experience amazing things this year. I will strive to be a reflective, caring, curious, open-minded, principled and balanced teacher. **


 * See you soon, **
 * Mrs. Spielman **