Harris Hill Elementary

Hello! I have been teaching in Clarence for many years and have a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Medaille College, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education and Athletic Training from Canisius College. I received my Masters of Science degree from Buffalo State College with a concentration in Reading. I have taught grades 3 through 5 throughout my career.

I live in West Falls with my husband, and have four wonderful children, or should I say young adults! My oldest son, Philip, is a very talented general contractor. He is married and living in Kenmore. My daughter Sara is an educational facilitator in the Charlotte-Mecklenberg school district in North Carolina. The school district is very lucky to have her! I am also very proud of my son Jake who is a reservist in the United States Air Force, and an electrician by trade. My youngest daughter, Carly, is the head pastry chef at Oliver's Restaurant in Buffalo. She is deliciously talented! I can't forget to mention Jackson our precious pit, our new addition, Roland, an English Labrador, and our part time class pet Biggie, the bearded dragon. Don't worry she doesn't breathe fire! 

I am looking forward to getting to know my students and their families, as well as another fun and productive year at Harris Hill Elementary.

Students will be actively engaged reading, writing, math, science, and social studies lessons.  All students in fourth grade are expected to demonstrate responsibility for all work.  This includes class work and homework. 

Highlights of Fourth Grade:

• Reading:  Multiple genre studies  and comprehension of both short stories and novels is a primary focus.  Students will participate in book clubs with their classmates.  Independent reading, both at home and at school, is an important component in developing life-long reading skills. 
• Math:  Before entering fourth grade, it is essential that students master basic math facts: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.  Mastering these basic math facts will enable students to efficiently solve more complex math problems. 
• Writing:  Students will consume, critique, and produce multiple genres. 
• Social Studies:  The history of New York State is the primary focus in social studies.  Units of study include:  geography, economics, Native Americans, explorers, Colonial Period, revolutionary War, government, Industrial Revolution, and immigration. 
• Science: A hands-on approach is emphasized in science.  Units of study include: crayfish and animal adaptations, magnets, energy, electricity, matter, chemistry, plants and pollination,  body systems, health, nutrition, and cells.