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Katie is forever looking out for me and making sure I am taking care of myself so I can take care of others :) Dr. Taylor

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These folks hold me accountable and help me see the perspectives of others daily. I am thankful. :) Dr. Taylor

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I feel here ar HCA that everyone is supporting me and my staff in the room. Dr. Taylor has supported me alot this year with everything. Another set of ladies that have helped me through the year is Tiffany Mcspadden, Maddie Volk, Payton Clark, Mary Vigneri and Tiffany Stapleton. These ladies have been amazing this year helping me build the littles room and just overall encouraging me to be the best I can be. I cannot think these people enough!

-Julie Lucas

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There are so many passionate people at HCA that intentionally support and deliberately lift others up:

Dr. Taylor: your inspiring, passionate leadership

Mrs. Goodwin: your gentle, considerate, and organized leadership

Katie: for always finding coverage, so that we can take care of ourselves and our family.

Nancy Bulmer: always coming to work with a smile on her face and a kind word for others

Paula Scott-Murray: for making others laugh and always taking care of 4k business

Mrs. Morales: building beautiful community in the Montessori cottage and being the gatekeeper

The Montessori Cottage Staff: we lift each other up, lend a helping hand or provide words of consolation whenever needed, and create and provide invaluable positive energy. I appreciate you all!!

The list could go on and on <3

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My job is different than most but i can say i feel supported daily.  When Jen Wright could not help me troubleshoot the problem my laptop was having with Silent Dismissal, she lent me her computer to use for "layover" carline.   It may seem like a small act to some, but dealing with 40-50 active kinders and 1 st graders who are ready to go home, is much more doable.  Molly C

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I have to agree that Melissa Tripp, Chris Martinez and L. Walker absolutely supportive. They have truly been a pivotal part of helping out with 6th grade and all of our needs and concerns! Y’all are the BOMB! 💜😊

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I feel very supported in the cottage and feel that our team members are always lending a helping hand and encouraging words when needed, even if it’s the smallest of things. It doesn’t go unnoticed!

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I feel surrounded by support at HCA. My third grade teammates are always my first line of support. Kelsey, Lorena, Misty, and Sharon are always there for me when I need them and always have the best advice and support. Kaylee Heath is also a huge person of support for me. She was my mentor last year as a first year teacher and has continuously been someone I can turn to no matter what. I am so thankful for all of the support I receive at HCA. 💙

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I have so many turtle moments here, but the one that probably sticks out the most (first) is when I took on the nurses assistant. I had the best support from Nurse Tibbs, (the “old”) Nurse Shealy, Mrs. Molly and all of our administrators. That role turned out to be a great blessing for me, and one that (surprise y’all - who knew me as #notanurse), I kind of miss. 💙💛

-Kanagy

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I feel that everyone at HCA is a turtle to someone at some point. We all truly do step up when needed. If I had to narrow down my turtles I would say Amanda Stefanski, Tara Britton, Becca Bell, Shanon Young, Paula Dejong, and Shevonne Washington. They have all been super supportive since my return from maternity leave and all the changes that have happened in our classroom.

L. Woodward

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I can honestly say there are turtles everywhere here at HCA for me. I feel valued, supported and happy to be a part of this amazing team. WE ARE A TEAM!!! All of us. I promise I feel and mean that.

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We work as team in 1st grade. It is turtles for me!

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I seek and receive support from the people down my high school hallway. They offer advice, encouragement and often, a good laugh. They understand what my job is like and we have solidarity in what we do. They check on me and care about my well being. I feel blessed to work with these women.

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The cottage friends are my turtles. We support each other, listen, laugh, learn from one another and grow together as a team.

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I would be lost without my turtles! This work is hard but being around people that are willing to help troubleshoot on a moments notice is a breath of fresh air. I'm incredibly thankful for my team!

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I feel supported by everyone around me in B building. We are a team! The admin team goes above and beyond to help me and my students. Dr. Taylor is our Splinter.

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There is no way I could name all the times someone has been a turtle and stepped up to help me be more successful-happens everyday! My SPED team is a constant support in meetings, with students, and ANYTHING else I need! Thank goodness the general education teachers are so flexible and work with me to schedule our students when meetings or other conflicts come up so I don’t miss intervention/therapy times! Our administrators have taught me so much through their modeling by listening and coming alongside others (me) to help them (me) grow! None of us could be successful without our support staff who are always working hard to make sure the school runs effectively!!💙💛💙

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I could go on and on. I could share a turtle story from every single minute I have been at HCA. My recent turtles came from the MS Dance this past weekend. Turtles showed up on Friday, on Saturday early, on Saturday night, stayed after the dance, and came in on Sunday. Our village showed up and showed out! There was so much turtle power this weekend! When there was a need, a turtle stepped up. It was awe inspiring.

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When I'm getting my day started at work it feels like I'm a turtle because everyone is so kind and very helpful. So to me that's make so grateful and appreciate on what I do at HCA.

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Jennifer Kelley has given me really great advice on a college my youngest son will be attending. My family and I have been in the trenches so to speak about our son's upcoming matriculation day at The Citadel. Fees, no contact with family for the first week, hazing, you name it and Jennifer has given advice on, listened to me and encouraged me that this college experience will be just fine for my son and for me as a frazzled momma! Thanks Jennifer!

Aimee' Nesbitt

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Thank you to Mrs.Ashley R, Mrs.

Mary, and Mrs.Tiffany S. for always being supportive!!! No Matter what they're doing they will make away to figure out how that can help. Thank you ladies!!

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I cannot express enough how much love and support I have received from ALL of the staff here at HCA this year! Everyone has been amazingly welcoming and helpful! I can go to any individual or team in any of these beautiful buildings and everyone would be happy to lend a helping hand no matter the need. I LOVE HCA!!!!! I am truly grateful for the opportunity to witness this beautiful climate and culture personally. Thank everyone so much!!

Aimee' Nesbitt

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My team are my turtles. Megan always goes above and beyond to help everyone get everything done and set us all up for success and she can always sense when im overwhelmed and just steps in. Jacqueline always steps in and reminds me to take care of myself and knows just what to say to cheer me up. Ashley Sturkie has been my turtle because she always supports me every way she can and she guides me in all the things I don't understand and has taught me so very much. Cass is my turtle bc any problem I cant figure out especially dynamics wise she just supports me thru easily. Abby is my turtle bc she always helps and lends a hand in any way needed. Even if i call her just to pick her brain for ideas. I could name so many turtles I have at HCA yall just don't know..... Kristin

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I absolutely love working here at the Village. I love being able to do what I love to do. In case you don't know, I love teaching music. Thanks to Dr. Taylor, Chris Martinez, and Heather Rhodes for the trust, encouragement, and support you give. #the trio. More than that however is how much the students give. I am so proud of their accomplishments this year and I'm excited to see what great things next year will bring.

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I absolutely love working here at the Village. I love being able to do what I love to do. In case you don't know, I love teaching music. Thanks to Dr. Taylor, Chris Martinez, and Heather Rhodes for the trust, encouragement, and support you give. #the trio. More than that however is how much the students give. I am so proud of their accomplishments this year and I'm excited to see what great things next year will bring.

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Gosh, I'm not really sure where to begin because everyone at HCA has been a turtle to me. Every day, I am reminded of why I love HCA and that I work at the best place ever, because we have the best people, ever! When I saw this post, I immediately thought of Mrs. Terlizzi, who endlessly helped me study during her planning period so that I could pass my math praxis!! The specials team have been my turtles when I was working with them. The Montessori Cottage. Literally everyone at HCA has helped me happily and willingly in some way and I think that's part of what makes HCA so special. -Becky James

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Ms. Nelson is without a doubt a queen of turtles! I don’t know where I would be here without her! Her passion and all she does for the school, is one of our unsung heroes here at HCA!!!

Coach G

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We have such a wonderful community of “turtles.” It is comforting to know if there is a need, there is someone close by that can help. Even if it may not be a quick-fix, there is always someone to help solve a problem. I love the community we’ve built!

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My turtles would include Mrs. Cagle and Mrs. Ritz. With it being my first year I was worried about navigating the way of being a successful teacher, and they have never failed to be right there to help me with anything that I need no matter how big or small.

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I’ve felt so supported here at HCA as a first year teacher. My team has given me all the resources & has always been there for me. People like Dr. Green always answer any questions I have and make me feel supported as well. I could go on & on listing all the ways someone at this school has helped me get through my first year.

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Here at HCA there are so many turtles that have helped me since I first started here. Ashley reeves and Mrs. Mary have been super helpful and always there to support me in anyway. This year I have support from my fellow kindergarten TAs and the wonderful kinder teachers. I also still have support from my former SPED team (Ivey Savage). I am so thankful for all of the turtles!

Brandi Moore

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It's not easy starting a program and a athletic team from the ground up--especially in an area where the majority of people around you know nothing about it. But the people in our hallway always show up and show out to support me, even if its just simply checking in to make sure I am doing ok. We all might be moving like turtles lately but at least we in it together!!! <3

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There are so many turtles at HCA! Misty and Avery have been so supportive throughout everything this year. The good, the bad and the ugly! My 3rd grade team has been there through the hardships this year. Paula and Dr. Taylor have been so supportive while I navigate the world of medical homebound coordinator. Dr. Green has been able to help with my reading ideas and make me a better reading teacher. Erica has been supportive in making sure everything is going well inside the classroom. I am so thankful for EVERYONE at HCA!

-S. Birchmore

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I feel supported by the other teachers in the High School wing daily. We can always look to each other for support and advice.

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Since being at HCA I have felt surrounded by turtles! From the beginning of my practicums with Dr. Green to now being apart of the amazing second grade team. I am also blessed to now have the amazing support from the Cottage. Being a first year comes with lots of questions and uncertainty but I have felt nothing short of supported and cared for here at HCA. <3

-Maya Rodriguez

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How to choose just a few... Since coming to HCA, I have learned to love teaching again. I am excited to go to work because of the environment that we get to work in.

Brandee and AMT- For pushing me outside of my comfort zone and helping me realize I have so much more to offer.

Erica and Leia- For just being you and supporting me through everyday struggles.

My 4th grade team- Learning and supporting each other through changes

Hannah, Haylee and Jamie- God knew what he was doing when he put you 3 in my life! Each of you have shown what true friendship is and support me on a daily basis, inside and outside of the HCA walls.

I LOVE MY JOB!

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My turtle for 3 years has been Mrs. Ritz. From the day I started teaching 5th grade, she has always been there to help. It started as her having to remind me to go to lunch :) She continuously has to help me and remind me to do things. I feel like we are spirit turtles that were meant to work together!

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Turtles for me. Anytime I have needed support Ashley Reeves and Erica Goodwin have been there to help. There are some days I don't know how I would get through the days without them. Thank you both for being there for me.

-Bobbi

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team turtles for me!!!  there so much support and help when it comes to my team and the school as a whole! we really are the village!

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team turtles for me!!!  there so much support and help when it comes to my team and the school as a whole! we really are the village!

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Some days this work is tough. We are learning new things everyday and it's so easy to feel bogged down. The results of what we do and my turtles keep me going when days are hard and I wouldn't change it for anything! I've experienced many individuals who are my turtles in small ways and big ways. From a simple answer or congratulations to investigating a task with me, it doesn't go unnoticed :)

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So thankful to the members of the leadership and director teams who support each other and are always looking to learn together. Thank you the front office ladies - Rebecca, Cara, Leia, Nicole, and Alexis - for being the face of HCA and managing so much! Thank you to the behavior teams who step up and help with the challenging events that occur throughout the day!

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There have been so many who have helped and supported me this year. Pretty much everyone in building B has been so kind and assisted me in some way. One person I must recognize is Nurse Tibbs. Although I subbed for HCA in the past, it is nothing like being a FT employee. Norma wrapped her little turtle arms around me and flipped me over every time I was clueless. I have learned so much and grown in ways I never imagined this year. I love my turtles!

-Nurse Shealy

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Dr. T for always pushing me to be better than I was yesterday.

Cass for always listening to me when I need to talk it out.

Lindsey for always being true and a ray of sunshine in morning carline with me.

Booker/Walker for always helping with athletics.

Dr. Green for always being a voice of wisdom.

The village for always being the best people to share my days with.

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There are a lot of turtles at the school.

Safford - someone that has been there for me to vent to, brainstorm with and learn from.

McDaniel - someone to collaborate with on ideas and not make me feel like I am alone.

Chambers - supportive with my instruction and providing me space to put me in a better position to deliver lessons.

Leadership - they have always been there to listen to me, check in on me and push me to be the best I can be.

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I have gained so many true friendships since joining the HCA family. Kaylee, Jamie and Haylee I don't know where I'd be without y'all. I am so grateful for everyone in my circle. My team has been extra helpful this year and have helped me grow even more as a teacher. -Hannah Holbrook

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I have countless turtles here. Some that stick out at first is:

Lyndsey Lynch: For always being so supportive when I come to to vent about my own colleges classes. She always has so much faith in me and has even participated as someone I needed to interview for one of my classes.

Dr. Taylor/Mrs. Tripp: For always supporting me and my family when I'm in need. Knowing when I need to hear no, and always believing in me. Especially, Mrs. Tripp for always putting up with me.

Pretty much all building A teachers: Just being people to see through the day that we can lift each other up and put a smile on each others faces in between classes. Always supporting me when I'm stressing about school. Being able to validate and help each other without expecting anything in return.

Kristen/Megan/Jaqueline: For always making sure my kids eat. Keeping my kids from eating takis when they have potential ulcers and making sure my other one stays hydrate when she's too shy to ask lol

There's so many. I couldn't imagine being anywhere else but here. It's close to unheard of to come across a crab here. They're all turtles.

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Turtles are like family and support each other. I am grateful for everyone who supports and encourages me.

Enjoy

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Man, I am so thankful for all the support at HCA--too many to name. I am thankful for Erica and Cass. They are always there to listen, encourage, and provide helpful guidance. I learn so much through them daily. I am thankful for Leia, Cara, Bobbi, Mary, and Tiffany. You all support me daily in my job and I appreciate you all!

Ivey for always being a positive encouragement for me.

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We are a Bale of Turtles! We nurture and support each other every day. What a wonderful way to get through the week!

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I came out of public school and didn't quite realize how bad it had worn me down (and even made me a little mean, I think). I love that I have had Marti, and Dr. Green, and Dr. Taylor, and Lynch to kind of coach a little more gentleness back into my teaching. I also love that I have people like Carol Ann and Chambers to use as a sounding board and a friend.

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I would have to say that Summer Watson has been the most successful over the last few months in all aspects for many WINS!

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I have always thought turtles were an amazing creature, but never once have I put two and two together as they are helpers. I see it now! As a matter of fact, I was able to witness baby turtles hatch this past August, and it was AMAZING! I saw them helping each other at just a few minutes from hatching.

As much as we don’t want to bother others, or come across weak, we ALL need help at times. We need help to “flip back over” when we get turned upside down. I am so very thankful for the village at HCA that has helped me flip back over. I am thankful for the prayers, the support, the guidance, and so much more from my daily team (Heather, Sherry, and Tanya). I am thankful for Mary and Tiffany for a listening ear when I feel strong enough to talk. I am thankful for Ashley, Erica, Cass, and Mr. Walker for helping support behaviors when they arise. I am thankful for Dr. Taylor and her support. I sit on awww at moments and think…man I wish I was a bad*** like her. I am thankful for Joanna for her support and helping us voice what our kids need when we can’t seem to find the words ourselves.

There are so many more 🐢 at HCA and I appreciate you more than you will ever know. Just remember, when you don’t think you are helping, sometimes just a smile walking down the hallway means the world somedays. 💙💛 Let’s keep being a strong village!

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There are so many wonderful people I could go on a list as my turtles. But the ones that stuck out the most are my amazing 3rd grade team. In the past two years we have created a strong bond between us and work together to support each other, the students and HCA. I’d be pretty lost without them.

K. Kline

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As a new teacher at HCA, it's been amazing how much everyone wants to help and cheer you on! The encouragement is infectious and I feel with my partner teacher, I always have someone who has my back and works together so that our kiddos also feel loved, supported and encouraged!

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I appreciate all the different types of turtles we have at HCA. This year, more than ever, I have had support from the young turtles to the more mature ones. You have helped me transition into my retirement so gracefully this year. I love all of you beautiful turtles! Keep working together and love one another as well as yourself!

Interesting fact about turtles...they age slowly 😉

Ms. Carol

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I am so thankful for my people at HCA! Navigating this twin pregnancy, home life, and still trying to be a great teacher has only been made possible through their support! Even when my morning symptoms have me moving “turtle-like”. Jamie and Kelsey hold it down on our hall for me! ❤️❤️❤️

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I am thankful to be in an environment where there is collective support in everything that we do. Taking on some larger roles this year has shown me just how great this place is and I do not take for granted how we have established a culture of supporting each other when we need it. This place is truly a village in all senses of the word and I am so happy to be here.

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HCA is unlike any place I have ever worked.  The behavior team is amazing.  I never feel like I am on my own.  I have people I can go to when I need to know how to deal with a situation and I think that is vital.  The building of the high school team will take time, but I can see those who are my people.  Thank you for building an amazing culture where teachers can thrive and feel supportd.

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HCA is unlike any place I have ever worked.  The behavior team is amazing.  I never feel like I am on my own.  I have people I can go to when I need to know how to deal with a situation and I think that is vital.  The building of the high school team will take time, but I can see those who are my people.  Thank you for building an amazing culture where teachers can thrive and feel supportd.

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I have many turtles at HCA, but I want to give a shout out to Randi- she's been by my side and flipping me back over when I'm stuck since day one. I am forever grateful for her and do not know what I would do without her.

A huge a shout out to my team, the SPED department, the beautification team, and the admin team for always having my back and helping me survive the days. I appreciate my turtles in my corner. <3

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Our first grade team supports each other by working collaboratively and sharing the workload. Each one of us has a role to play and we all share in that. From creating weekly newsletters, reading test, math, test, sight word practice, and comprehension stories. This is a lot for one teacher to take on so to have a grade level that is willing to work together and spread the wealth is a win.

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What a whirlwind it was starting a new school this year! Over the course of the year, I've had so many turtles that were welcoming, supportive, and encouraging! It is because of them, and the kids of course, that this year has been the best one yet!

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With a lot of changes and developments in our evolving roles, we find ourselves constantly building and changing policies/procedures. This is often frustrating and we very much feel like we are drowning. My  teammates always swoop in to save the day, even if it means taking a break to get a FREE Kona Ice! Thank you HCA for all of the extras you do to keep me swimming in the right direction. 

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With a lot of changes and developments in our evolving roles, we find ourselves constantly building and changing policies/procedures. This is often frustrating and we very much feel like we are drowning. My  teammates always swoop in to save the day, even if it means taking a break to get a FREE Kona Ice! Thank you HCA for all of the extras you do to keep me swimming in the right direction. 

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I am so thankful for my 6th grade team! We support each other and can rely on each other. Whether it be one of us is out or a child needs help, we are completely flexible with each other!

Also- Lynch has been a rockstar supporting me in my new standards and helping prepare my student teacher for life as our new 7th grade science next year!

Becca Bell