MrsBlakeHasClass

Elementary educator since 2015 with a focus on structured, standards-aligned instruction. Creator of The Proficiency Series™, a 3-Level Proficiency Model™ designed to support student growth from computation to reasoning. Additional experience in web design and photography (nicholeblake.com)

Welcome! I’m Mrs. Blake, an elementary educator passionate about creating meaningful, standards-aligned learning experiences that help students grow with confidence. *~ My teaching approach is rooted in three key principles: --> Data-Informed Instruction I believe data should do more than measure performance—it should guide instruction and empower students. I use assessment data to identify skill gaps, adjust instruction, and help students understand their own progress in a clear and actionable way. --> Student-Centered Learning I design learning experiences that go beyond simply getting the right answer. My goal is to help students understand how to think, not just what to do. By focusing on problem-solving, question comprehension, and reasoning, students build deeper understanding and independence. --> Structured Differentiation Every student learns differently, which is why my resources are intentionally designed to support multiple levels of proficiency: -- Approaching Proficiency -- At Proficiency -- Above Proficiency This structure allows teachers to meet students where they are while also providing opportunities for growth and challenge. *~ Real Classroom, Real Results All resources are classroom-tested and designed with real students in mind. They are created to: -- Support small group instruction -- Prepare students for state assessments like ILEARN -- Promote student ownership and reflection -- Build both skill and confidence *~ My Goal To create resources that are not only effective, but also practical—giving teachers tools they can use immediately while helping students truly understand and apply what they are learning.

*~ Demonstrated student growth through targeted, data-driven instruction aligned to ILEARN Checkpoints *~ Developed a structured approach to differentiation using approaching, proficient, and advanced levels within a single lesson *~ Empowered students to take ownership of their learning through goal setting and data reflection *~ Designed instruction that strengthens both mathematical skills and question comprehension *~ Built a classroom environment focused on consistency, accountability, and student independence *~ Contributed to school-wide STEM initiatives that promote hands-on, real-world learning

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Indiana University and a Master’s degree in Learning Design and Technology from Purdue University. I am a licensed teacher in Indiana with experience teaching across multiple grade levels, including both general education and art. My graduate work in learning design and technology has shaped how I create instructional materials—focusing on intentional design, student engagement, and meaningful learning experiences. I approach resource creation with both a classroom teacher’s perspective and an instructional designer’s mindset. I have also participated in ongoing professional development, including training in literacy instruction through Keys to Literacy and collaborative work within Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). My experience in a STEM-certified school environment has strengthened my focus on problem-solving, critical thinking, and real-world application. All resources in this store are designed to be practical, standards-aligned, and effective for diverse learners.

I am passionate about creating structured, engaging learning environments where students feel confident taking ownership of their growth. I believe that clear expectations, meaningful feedback, and strong relationships are key to student success. In my classroom, I focus on helping students become independent thinkers by teaching them how to approach problems, not just solve them. I value consistency, reflection, and giving students the tools they need to understand their progress. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy photography and creative design, which influences how I approach both instruction and resource creation. I strive to create materials that are not only effective, but also thoughtfully designed and easy for teachers to implement. *~ Thoughtfully designed. Classroom tested. Built for real learning. ~*