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My name is Alexa VanBuren and I teach first grade in Spring Arbor, Michigan which is just outside of Jackson.  Currently, I am wrapping up my second year of teaching, and with a class I looped with!

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While working on my master's this year, I also am planning a wedding with my fiance, Nick. We will be getting married June 20, 2020 and couldn't be more excited!

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We have a Golden Retriever named Daisy. She recently turned one and keeps us active and busy!

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My specialization in the program is in Reading.  I had the opportunity to loop with students from kindergarten to first grade, and how students learn to read has interested me. I want to improve my practice so that I can help more students develop the basic reading skills needed.

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Building relationships with my students is very important to me because showing students you care is important for them to feel safe in the classroom and take risks.  When students feel like they can take risks, learning can happen because they are not afraid to make mistakes.

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After completing the program, I aspire to use what I have learned to continue improving my practice.  I want all my students, regardless of the grade I am teaching, to make gains in reading skills and to have a love for reading.

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I believe good teaching involves teaching social/emotional skills like cooperation and teamwork. Our school currently has a mindfulness initiative, where we actively teach students how to deal with big emotions. It helps students work in partnerships and solve conflicts when problems sometimes occur. Students can learn so much when working together!