GETTING TO KNOW OUR TEACHERS

CONGRATULATIONS to Ellen Harter and Cathy Sands each for celebrating their 20th anniversary of teaching at Suburban Nursery School! Thank you for sticking with us since 1985!

Catherine D. Sands
Redbird Teacher (Four-year olds)

Middlebury College, B.A.
Lesley College, M. Ed., Early Childhood

My introduction to teaching came quite by accident. After returning to the US after living in Amsterdam in the mid 60's, I applied to work/volunteer in the newly developed Head Start program and was promptly told that I didn't qualify because I didn't have a degree in education. Not to be put off, I entered a graduate program in Early Childhood Education at Lesley College in Cambridge, MA and graduated in 1968. I taught for the next two years in the Boston area and missed the last day of school having my daughter, Caroline! (What a wonderful opportunity for showing the children how babies develop in utero.) I took off the next nine years enjoying the time with my children. (Rob was born in '73.) In 1979, I returned to teaching, this time in a cooperative preschool. It was the ideal job; I left after the children went to school and was home when they returned! I started teaching at Suburban Nursery School in 1985 and here I am today... still loving my work!!!

When asked by acquaintances why I continue to teach "nursery school children," I respond that I would teach no other age group, specifically four-year-olds. They are fresh, open, honest and truly their own persons; the "world" has not sullied their innocence and enthusiasm. They make me laugh; they are sponges for information; their honesty and straight-forwardness become my conscience. Every day I learn something about a child, about his/her little world, about myself.

Our world today challenges both parents and teachers alike... how do you impart life-long values that often go in the face of "these times". I hope that each child leaves my class with a sense of responsibility to each other; respect, caring, empathy. Their ABC's and 123's will come when they are ready; I am more concerned about their social and emotional development. My goal as their teacher will be realized when each child says, with pride, "I am learning how to be a friend," "we finished that puzzle together," "I like myself!!"

The challenge is in keeping the curriculum balanced and fun by providing appropriate materials for each child's needs and by creating opportunities for them to learn just what it means to be a friend. They need to acquire the social skills necessary to work together and share in order to reach a common goal. And, with fun and interesting unit materials, they will find great joy and pride in their new-found knowledge, whether it be that lobsters walk backwards or why they bleed!!!

Comments from Parents:
"Cathy is a clear authority figure with the kids and a master at spotting and settling quarrels between and among the kids in a no-nonsense manner that works great. It's a great group of kids and they genuinely like one another and Mrs. Sands and the children respond to her very well. It is also clear that Mrs. Sands is very fond of all her birds, and shows them in her own personal way all the time."
"I think Mrs. Sands is a treasure trove of experience and knowledge regarding the education of pre-K children."
"Cathy has the respect of the kids and they really enjoy her. They definitely missed her when she was out sick!"
"Cathy is very open to communication. I feel comfortable speaking with her before, during and after class. I know she is also available via email and encourages communication during group meetings. I always feel informed."
"Cathy provides a perfect balance of nurturing and structure."
"She knows her stuff. She is able to focus on what's truly important."
"My child thinks the world of Mrs. Sands. She seems very comfortable interacting with her. That is a huge accomplishment for a child that has struggled with her anxiety for years."
"Mrs. Sands serves as a role model in dealing with home activities! I learn so much by watching the teachers interact with the children. It makes me wish I could co-op every day!"

Frances N. Warthen
Director and Bluebird Teacher (Three-year olds)

Child Development Associate from the NAEYC
AA in Early Childhood Education

In my former professional life, I worked as a manager on the production staff of U. S. News and World Report magazine for 12 years. After the birth of my second son, Eric in 1986, I decided to stay home for a "few years". I enrolled my four-year-old son Reid (born in 1982) in the neighborhood nursery school, which turned out to be a cooperative nursery school (Garrett Park). I sat through the orientation meeting and wondered what in the world I had gotten myself into! I survived co-oping, fundraising, made some wonderful friends and discovered a whole network of people with many of the same parenting concerns and experiences. When Eric turned three, "we" again enrolled and I agreed to serve on the Board. Two years later, GPNS needed a substitute for the four-year-old class and I did long term substituting of 3 to 5 weeks at a time, several times a year. I was truly astonished to discover how much I enjoyed working with the children!

I enrolled in a program offered by the National Academy for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and earned a Child Development Associate certificate. As luck would have it, Suburban's Director/Bluebird Teacher, Phyliss Whitten, was retiring (after 20 years!). I applied for the job, observed Phyliss' class, Cathy Sands came by to observe me teaching at Garrett Park and... thus began one of my most rewarding and challenging opportunities. I am the newest staff member at Suburban (I've been here since 1994) and am privileged to be part of a team of teachers who work and play well together. We share laughs and tears, comfort and support, and years of loving what we do.

There is never a dull moment when teaching three year olds. I love their enthusiasm and excitement. Every experience is new, interesting and exciting for them. What could be more rewarding that taking 18 three year olds, watching them develop and grow while helping them learn about themselves, each other and the world around them?

I gather new ideas at every opportunity, by reading books, magazines, observing and talking to other teachers, attending seminars, etc. When the new ideas work, I incorporate them into my ever growing curriculum. I adapt what I do to the interests of the children. Sometimes the children tire of our discussions in only a few days, sometimes we carry on for a week or longer. I explore the depths of their interests and then move one. I always have too many things to do. I deliberately over plan the activities and projects so that I can pick and choose what we will do dependent upon the children.

I try very hard to develop open and caring relationships with the parents of each of my Bluebirds. I cannot do my job effectively without your help and support. Because of the unique nature of a cooperative school, I am always under observation and always modeling behavior for the children and parents. I try to help parents learn effective methods to handle situations that arise at school as well as at home. By working together, we will make nursery school a learning experience for all of us.

Comments from Parents:
"Fran has a great way with the kids who all seem to adore and respect her. She is very accessible and seems to care about each child."
"Fran has a calm and reassuring manner, coupled with a firm sense of authority. She always seems to elicit positive group behavior without ever raising her voice (or even moving quickly toward an escalating situation!) She projects her confidence in the children, and they respond positively. She leads by example, but also explains to parents tangible tools they can use to elicit the same good behavior."
"Fran is tremendously gifted at detecting each child's fears, frustrations and pleasures. She encourages all children to explain their fears and frustrations, and allows them to explore their pleasures. She does not direct their play or curtail their imagination. She appropriately redirects a child who is behaving in a socially unacceptable manner while at the same time helping the child understand his or her desire to behave in that way."
"My observation is that Fran interacts well with all the children, is very caring and concerned that each child develops appropriate class/social skills, and has a good time."
"I am so impressed with her concern for each individual child. She is always available to me when I have concerns and is always so encouraging."
"Fran is very intuitive. She knows developmental signs to look for in kids and knows how to delicately approach parents for more information. I feel so fortunate to have Fran as a role model, sounding board and advocate for my child. Our school is so lucky to have her. She is a superb teacher and really understands 3 & 4 year old kids!"
"She skillfully manages a very diverse group of children - it seems effortless! But, in fact, takes a lot of patience, experience, calm and presence of mind. I'm trying to live up to her example - it ain't easy!"

Victoria T. Corno
T/Th Yellowbird Teacher (Two-year olds)

Cabrini College, BS. Ed.

I grew up in Allentown, PA in an all-Italian household, the oldest of three. I was not only the tallest female in my family, but the first to leave home and attend college. I went to a small all-girl's school, Cabrini College. Mother Cabrini was the first Italian-American saint... see the connection? My parents did. I majored in Elementary Education and graduated in 1971.

I moved to Boston to be near my hippy boyfriend, whom I had met at the first Earth Day Celebration in 1970. Peace, brother. I taught elementary school in the New England area for about 4 years. We married and moved to Colombia, S.A. where I taught 3rd grade in the countryside of Bogota in a bi-lingual school for all boys. What a hoot! We moved back home just in time; the Colombian cartel and all its drug money was just about to take hold of the country.

It was then that I discovered Early Childhood Education. I fell in love with the age range and the creativity and flexibility of teaching them. I took graduate courses to fill in my educational gaps and never looked back. I've taught in private nursery schools, day care centers, and co-ops. I've team taught, co-directed and administered alone. I've taught poor children, rich children and my own children. I can't imagine teaching again where I might have to give homework!!

Teaching this age group is my way of re-fueling my tank. Each year is new and different, thank God. Each class has its challenges. Each year has me thinking of creative ways to handle children's (and parent's) needs. I find my role changing with the times. I find myself attending lectures and seeking advice of professionals to help me with my ever-changing role as teacher, co-teacher, and parent. Parents need support and guidance when learning this new job of parenting in the 21st century. I find that I am not only referring to my many years of teaching, but also my years as a parent. I have three children, Cate (born in 1986), Andrew (born in 1983), and Danny 18 (born in 1980). We all help each other. We all teach each other.

I have been at Suburban since 1992. I love it here. Teaching part time allows me to do my parent job for my family. I have done the PTA route, the sports team administering and the brownie baking. I love working with Cathy, Fran and Ellen; they are a highly motivated and gifted group of professionals. The atmosphere is stimulating and supportive. I am delighted to be a part of this place. It puts a smile on my face. I am doing what I love to do; my family knows it, I know it, and now so do you.

Comments from Parents:
"I feel that I could discuss many topics with Vicki - and I have! I trust her to treat my concerns with consideration & confidentiality."
"I strive to follow her example in treating the children with respect, humor, kindness, and firm boundaries. I like the way she enforces rules without a power struggle, and uses diversion to head off trouble."
"We are very pleased with how Vicki relates to the children (and their families.) She is a true professional at her job. I think she really knows what 2-to3- year old children are all about. She appreciates them, finds them cute & funny - enjoys them, and yet guides them in an age-appropriate way.
"Mrs. Corno has a special way with each of the Yellowbirds. She's a gifted teacher."
"Every child should be so lucky to have Vicki as their first teacher!"
"Mrs. Corno does a fabulous job of listening to and responding to the children. I think they all feel special to her. My child feels loved, safe, respected and confident. She's learning a lot about herself and others and having lots of fun."
"Vicki is an expert at bringing out the best in each personality in the class."

Ellen Harter
W/F Yellowbird Teacher (Two-year olds)

Beloit College, B.A.
Tulane University, M.S.W.
Montgomery College, 90-Hour Child Care Class

I was trained as a middle school history teacher and for my first job out of college I taught 6th grade in a school outside New Orleans, Louisiana, which was just integrating. During the summers in college and in Louisiana I worked in summer overnight and day camps. My first love was in camping so I went back to school to get an M.S.W. (Master of Social Work) so that I could do summer camp type work full time. I worked in a boys residential treatment center for 20 months (camp again) until I had my first child. We moved three times in five years (Minnesota, Boston, D.C.) and in each place I was active in playgroups, mother's morning out groups, and child craft activities. Arriving in D.C. in 1982 with a 5 year old and a 2 year old, I immediately went nursery school shopping. My youngest attended a co-op on River Road and was in the same class as Mrs. Corno's oldest son. When he left and Mrs. Sands moved to Suburban in 1987, I followed. I was trained as an academic tutor by the Kingsbury Center in 1985, after my baby finished preschool and now work at Green Acres School 4 days a week. I love being able to slow down and see what is really important in life - helping children to discover their own power and the world around them. I love never having to grow up, always having a good reason to listen to Raffi and to see the latest Disney film. I like watching children learn to take control of their social plans, to learn to work with other children, and to enjoy their company. Besides, where else to you come to get messy?

The Two's are really the only group I am qualified to teach. But I love watching the emerging language and being a child's first love outside of their home. Two's are definitely the best, not sophisticated enough to be malicious, but still having the streak of flirting and teasing in them.

My greatest challenge is keeping myself in the teacher role rather than in a peer role. I usually feel that there are just two good friends working with a group of children. It is also exciting, but hard to start over each year. Each class has its own personality and specific challenges. I do think it is hard to give every child enough time each week. I can only hope it all evens out in the end.

I only teach twice a week which keeps it fresh and exciting for me. I try to add one or two new projects per year so that my curriculum is always evolving. Working with 3 other terrific teachers makes coming to work a pleasure.

Outside of school, I love to swim, walk and garden. I teach Sunday school class to PreK through 8th graders. I have two sons, one born in 1977 and the other in 1980. We are mostly a sports family with emphasis on the hockey (Caps), football (Skins) and Baseball (O's) teams. We also go to Arena Stage and the Shakespeare theatre. This is life after nursery school.

Comments from Parents:
"Ellen is amazingly patient and creative and loving with these little 2-year-olds. My child had problems with me leaving at the beginning of the year and Ellen made a special, safe place for her to feel comfortable. She is a good, grounded soul whom I admire very much."
"Ellen communicates very clearly with us and is very understanding and patient as we learn our responsibilities in the class."
"I think Ellen is fantastic - I love her laid back, anything goes approach to the kids."
"You can tell Ellen loves the children in her care and does everything in her might to make them feel comfortable."
"I attest a huge portion of (child's) positive school experience to Ellen. My expectations have been exceeded."
"I think Ellen walks on water as a nursery school teacher (and is a great person to boot.)"
"I think Ellen is one of the nicest, best communicators I've seen as a teacher. She has handled all our interactions, whether in a group meeting or individual extremely well."
"I wish I had half of Ellen's calm (and joy of getting messy!)"

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT PROGRAMS

Celia Kibler
Creative Movement Teacher

University of Maryland
BS, College of Human Ecology

Funfit, Inc. (www.funfit.us)

I began Funfit Inc. in 1987. The Funfit program was created by my sister & I, a pediatric cardiologist, an orthopedic surgeon, a speech pathologist and an early childhood educator. Our goal was to create a program that allowed children to enjoy a full workout through continuous movement and loads of fun. This class would allow for full participation no matter the child's skill level, and would show kids and their families how much fun fitness can be. In Spring of 2003, I opened the Funfit Family Fitness Center in Rockville. Our center is unique as it offers fitness classes for babies through adults, including Grammys. Funfit offers an Open Gym as well and has funtastic birthday parties that you can come to our center for or we can come to you. I have a true love for special needs families and have been teaching special needs populations for many years. I was a faculty member of Montgomery College's Challenge Program, teaching a fitness class for special needs adults. Aside from Suburban Nursery School & our Center in Rockville, you can find our classes in the following recreation guides: Montgomery County, City of Rockville, City of Takoma Park, Frederick County, MD and McLean Community Center, McLean, VA.

I am also a Mom and have five wonderful children. Two of my own and three step-sons. My two: LAUREN is 21, attends the University of Maryland and will graduate this spring in Family Studies. She is currently a fashion model with 2 DC agencies and works as a waitress/bartender as well. KYLE is 15 and in the ninth grade at Sherwood High School in Olney. My stepson RYAN is 20 and living with us, PAUL(18) and ROSS(14), attend school in Virginia, where they live with their mother.

I feel like I was put on this earth to work with children. I absolutely love teaching at Suburban Nursery School, and I must say your children are always such a joy to be with. I look forward to my Fridays with them week after week. You all should be very proud of the wonderful learning environment that you have created for your children.

Comments from Parents:
"My child comes home jumping and singing so it is having a great impact!"
"Our child loves Celia. It is another great opportunity for exercise and a lot of fun."
"My child loves this class and thinks Celia can do anything."
"I love it! I love Celia's energy and patience with the kids. The children very obviously love her as well."
"Fabulous. My daughter loves it and I love the focus on teaching healthy habits and making exercise fun."

Betsy Meltzer
Music Teacher

University of Maryland
BS Music Education 1985
M. Ed School Counseling 1990

I am the parent of 2 wonderful, thriving, former Suburban Birds! Allyson is a 2001 graduate and Julia is 2003! I also have a stepdaughter, Gaylen, attending Montgomery College so life is never dull!

Starting to teach music at Suburban has brought me full circle in my career. I taught music for Elementary and Special Education students in Montgomery County Public Schools for 7 years before earning my Masters in School Counseling. I worked as a school counselor until Julia was 6 months old. It was a joy to have the Suburban moms and teachers as support in becoming a stay at home mom!

Subsequently, as the kids grew I decided to take on a little something and found a job to use both my counseling and music skills. I taught the Parent/Toddler classes through Montgomery County Adult Education. The perfect job where I could drop Julia at SNS and walk down the hall to work! Since Julia would be starting kindergarten, the logistics were a little uncertain and I decided to take a hiatus to see how everything would pan out.

A few weeks into the school year, everybody skating along, I got the surprising phone call from Lynn Gregory asking about the music program. So, here I am: delighted to be back at Suburban; glad NOT to have to give up the preschool years; and thrilled to get to see so many of my friends again!

Comments from Parents:
"Our child can't stop singing and I'm sure it has a lot to do with this class!"
"Betsy does a wonderful job with our Yellowbird class. The time just flies by!"
"Our daughter loves Betsy and comes home singing the songs she learned."
"Betsy is terrific. My daughter sings the songs and always is disappointed when Betsy is absent."

LUNCH BUNCH PROGRAM

Susan Valenstein
Redbird Lunch Bunch Teacher

Comments from Parents:
"Fantastic. Susan Valenstein is a wonderful person and teacher. I'm happy to have this two times a week. Kids really seem to enjoy the extra time together."
"Outstanding. Susan is terrific."