Mrs. Rachel Smith is the first grade teacher for the second year, having taught fifth grade previously at St. Brigid. This is her eighth year being a teacher at St. Brigid and she is excited to be a part of a vibrant community focused on helping students develop academically, physically, and spiritually. Ms. Katula received her Bachelors of Science in Education degree from the University of Dayton in 2016 with concentrations in early childhood education, special education and upper elementary education. While studying at the university, she was immersed in many different classrooms ranging from lower elementary to upper elementary grades.
Teaching Philosophy and Style
I believe that all children have unique learning styles in the classroom. I am devoted to providing a safe, caring, and developmentally appropriate environment for the students. This way students feel like they are a part of a community and are not afraid to take risks in their own learning. One of my goals is to implement engaging and challenging lesson plans that meet the needs of all the learners in the classroom. The first few weeks of school, I will focus on getting to know the students as well as reviewing content learned in the previous grades. To help inform my instruction, I will implement activities and assessments to get to know each students’ learning style. In the classroom, there will be independent work, whole group, and small group instruction that allows students to develop problem solving and critical thinking skills as well as become equipped with 21st century skills. In addition, I will integrate the catholic faith into my teachings, so students are able to continue growth in their faith. Another goal of mine is to help each student be excited about learning and become a lifelong learner in their academic career. As an educator, I will be involved in your students’ learning through scaffolding or providing each student with guidance that helps them push through challenges and ultimately succeed academically. Lastly, I believe that parents play a major role in their students’ learning and I would love to work with each parent to help their child succeed in the classroom. I look forward to this upcoming year!