Karen Fijlakowski

I have been teaching for 19 years. I have taught first grade for 7 years, then fourth grade for 10 years. I am back in first grade and "How Sweet It Is!"

I am a believer in using all teaching styles. I try to use hands on as much as possible. I feel that children are lacking in fine motor and need to be using their hands. I also believe in visual cues and auditory cues. I have picture labels, as well as, word wall type labels on most things in my room. I love to use the SmartBoard as much as possible. Interactive teaching goes a long way.

I was nominated Teacher of the Year at my Former Elementary School. I feel as though I won because I was nominated and lost by 2 votes to a veteran teacher of 30 yrs. To be nominated in her company was truly an honor! I aspire to be a vibrant and vivacious as she was after 30 years! She was my inspiration for sure!

I am a graduate of Lynn University in Boca Raton, Florida. I received my Masters Degree in Reading from Dowling College. I am currently 75 credits above my masters.

I love teaching, reading and dancing. But most of all I love my Husband and two boys! They keep me very busy!