Miss Nelson's Files

I've been teaching for twenty-five years. I started as a Title I reading specialist, then taught in third grade for a year before settling into second grade. I absolutely love my job -- I'm paid to read books and sit on the floor and play games! Recently I've also begun teaching teachers - which is almost as fun as teaching the little ones. :-)

I believe that children learn best when they feel loved and respected. They need to feel safe and supported to take risks, while being encouraged to keep trying even when the task seems too hard. They also need to have some fun. I like to create worksheets that scaffold their learning, meeting the children where they are but guiding them to where I know they can be.

I graduated from an American boarding school in West Africa before earning my bachelor's degree at Worcester State College in Massachusetts. My triple majors there were Education, Psychology, and English with a concentration in writing. I have a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Phoenix University and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Walden University.

I am an MK (a missionary kid) who spent time living in Canada, France, and Cote D'Ivoire, West Africa while growing up. I am also a breast cancer survivor, a mother, and the author of three books: In His Hands, All Is Well, and Join Me In the Journey. I love to read, write, and travel the world!