Monica Sparks

Philosophy: As a teacher, I feel that a safe and nurturing environment promotes cognitive, emotional, physical and social development in young children. I am a firm believer that every child is a unique individual with a need and right to learn in a meaningful environment. However, not every child learns the same way or at the same time. For that reason, I use a variety of teaching methods in my classroom that are developmentally appropriate for our students.

Programs Used in My Class: MMI and Calendar Math, Hands-On Science (HASP), Open Court Reading and Voyager Passport. Since Leon Sheffield is an Alabama Reading Initiative School, reading has become a focus in first grade. Students are exposed to a variety of printed materials and encouraged to read on a daily basis. Our goal in my class is to become fluent readers.

Message to Parents: You are the most important person in your child's life. It is of the utmost importance that you tell your child how much you value his /her education. When those values come from you, your child comes to school with a mindset that this is a place of learning and it is important to do your best. Let your child know in as many ways possible that you value school and he/she should too. It is one of the best things you can do for your child!