Mrs. Owen

     I am not only new to West Decatur Elementary, but I am new to the state of Alabama as well. However, I am not new to teaching. I've taught in New York City, NY, Hialeah, FL and Jacksonville, FL. for a total of 12 years. All of my experience has been with ELL students which has resulted in me teaching children from many different countries such as Vietnam, China, Ukraine, India, Kenya, Syria, Mexico, and Venezuela to name just a few. Teaching in the area of ELL has given me the opportunity to enjoy and learn from my students and their parents the beauty, value and richness of other cultures. I am married to Donald Owen, who is a retired Fire-Fighter Lieutenant and together we have 5 children ages 31 to 13. We have two dogs and two fish and we both enjoy reading and football. I am excited to be teaching at this beautiful school. I have found the teachers and staff to be highly professional and welcoming to a newcomer and I'm looking forward to a great school year. Thank you for making me feel so welcome.

Educational Background:
AA Tourism: San Juan, Puerto Rico
BBA Management: San Juan, Puerto Rico
MS Elementary Ed.: Jacksonville, Florida
Ed.S. Curr/Inst. Management & Adm: Jacksonville, Florida

Awards and Honors:
Teacher of the Year - Reynolds Lane Elementary 2004-2005
Teacher of the Year- R.L.E. (Runner Up) 2003-2004
Region II Employee of the Month April, 2004
Feature Teacher of the Month (R.L.E.) March, 2003
Professional Development Committee (R.L.E.) 2004-2005
E.S.O.L. Grade Leader 2002-2003
Principal Advisory Committee: Co-Chairperson 2000-2001

Professional Associations and School Involvement:
Reading Recovery National Association 2004-Present
T.E.S.O.L. 2004-Present
National Educators Association 2002