About the store
With 20 years of teaching experience, I’ve survived everything from middle school mayhem to high school brainiac moments. I currently wrangle 5th graders in ELA, but I’ve also taught AP World History, international relations, psychology, sociology, and middle school ELA. So, basically, I’ve seen it all and still love the challenge!
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Her Hands That Held the Stars – Rebecca Birch
Her Hands That Held the Stars – 3-Day Reading & Writing Unit (Grade 5)✨ A lyrical, heartwarming journey through memory, wonder, and the people who shape how we see the world... Story Snapshot:In Her Hands That Held the Stars by Rebecca Birch, a young girl reminisces about magical stargazing moments with her grandmother—moments that shaped how she experiences life, love, and legacy. This story is filled with rich figurative language and offers students a chance to reflect on the quiet beauty
5th - 7th
Balanced Literacy, Literature, Reading Strategies
CCSS, TEKS, VA SOL
CCRA.R.1
, CCRA.R.2
, CCRA.R.3
+24
Also included in: Short Stories Bundle – Fiction That Captivates 5th & 6th Graders
The Marble Champ by Gary Soto
Marble Champ by Gary Soto —Activity PackEngage your students with this captivating short story "Marble Champ" by Gary Soto, paired with a comprehensive set of activities designed to boost comprehension, vocabulary, writing, and critical thinking. About the Story:“Marble Champ” tells the heartfelt tale of Lupe, a young girl navigating challenges with courage and determination through the timeless game of marbles. Gary Soto’s vivid storytelling captures themes of perseverance, friendship, and per
4th - 7th
Balanced Literacy, Literature, Reading Strategies
CCSS, VA SOL
CCRA.R.1
, CCRA.R.2
, CCRA.R.3
+11
Also included in: Short Stories Bundle – Fiction That Captivates 5th & 6th Graders
Queen Raggy by Templeton Moss
The Prophecy That Fooled Everyone: A Creative Writing Activity Inspired by Queen Raggy Literature + Imagination + Critical Thinking = A Memorable Lesson! Story Inspiration: Queen Raggy by Templeton Moss In this delightfully strange short story, a kingdom awaits the return of its rightful queen, guided only by a vague prophecy. When a child accidentally drops her ragdoll onto a golden cushion in the royal court, the people immediately assume the doll—"Queen Raggy"—is the prophesied ruler. Despi
3rd - 6th
Balanced Literacy, Creative Writing
CCSS, TEKS, VA SOL
CCRA.R.2
, CCRA.R.3
, CCRA.R.6
+8
Also included in: Short Stories Bundle – Fiction That Captivates 5th & 6th Graders
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About the store
Experience
With 20 years of teaching experience, I’ve survived everything from middle school mayhem to high school brainiac moments. I currently wrangle 5th graders in ELA, but I’ve also taught AP World History, international relations, psychology, sociology, and middle school ELA. So, basically, I’ve seen it all and still love the challenge!
Teaching style
My mission? To sprinkle a little fairy dust on the classroom, turning the daily grind into a magical adventure that leaves both students and I grinning from ear to ear.
Awards & shining teacher moments
* Led student poetry book We Hear You on Darfur—praised by civil rights leaders, foreword by Maya Angelou, proceeds funded Darfur’s School of Peace.
* Coached National Champions 2025 (Team Electro-Buzz) in Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision STEM competition.
* Guided students to victory in Jason Learning/REMA PSA Contest, 2022–2024, for standout science storytelling.
* Fostered youth voice through art, advocacy, and innovation on national platforms.
My own education history
MST, Master of Science, Teaching, Education, State University of New York
BA, Bachelor of Arts, Theatre, College of Charleston
Education Certification – early to middle grades; middle to higher grades social sciences
Additional biographical information
A 5th-grade ELA teacher who thrives amidst the delightful chaos of teaching. When I'm not refereeing intense four-square matches during recess, I'm orchestrating classroom activities that are part learning, part comedy show. Growing up with a librarian mom, I find immense joy in bringing writing and books to life in the classroom, aiming to ignite a love for reading and storytelling in my students. I believe in making every lesson an adventure, ensuring my students are engaged, enlightened, and occasionally laughing so hard they snort. Join me as I navigate the wonderful whirlwind that is 5th grade, where every day is a new story waiting to be told.
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