TeachingTakesFlight

Hi! I’m Elissa, a dedicated educator with 19 years of experience in the field, including 11 years of classroom teaching across grades 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 7th, and 8th. I’ve taught remedial reading, served as a reading consultant, and worked as an ELL tutor, giving me a deep understanding of diverse learning needs. As a military spouse, I’ve had the unique opportunity to teach in various communities, adapting to different educational environments along the way. I hold two master’s degrees in Language Arts, which fuel my passion for creating resources that support literacy development. I’m excited to share research-aligned resources that I’ve found to be effective, making learning both engaging and accessible for students and teachers alike.

My teaching style is all about making learning meaningful and enjoyable for every student. I strive to create an inclusive classroom where everyone feels safe to express themselves and take risks. I like to mix things up—using hands-on activities, group discussions, and technology—to keep lessons fresh and engaging. Building strong relationships with my students is important to me, as it helps create a positive space where they feel comfortable asking questions and exploring new ideas. I focus on fostering critical thinking and collaboration, while also tailoring my approach to meet each student’s unique needs. Ultimately, I want to inspire a love of learning and help my students build skills they can use both in and out of the classroom.

Some of my favorite moments in the classroom happen when students make connections on their own or overcome challenges they once thought were impossible. Whether it’s a lightbulb moment when a concept finally clicks, or when a student proudly shares their work with the class, those are the moments that remind me why I love teaching. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch students grow in confidence and see them take ownership of their learning. These moments inspire me to continue creating a space where curiosity and self-discovery can thrive. I was just awarded the Thomas Tire Extra Mile Grant in 2024!

My education has been a journey of growth and discovery, starting with a Bachelor's in Childhood Psychology and Early Childhood Education from Eastern Connecticut State University. This laid the groundwork for my understanding of how children learn and develop. I then pursued a Master’s in Education from the University of Connecticut, where I gained valuable insights into teaching strategies and curriculum design. To continue my professional development, I completed a Sixth-Year Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction, which allowed me to dive deeper into effective teaching practices and educational leadership. These experiences have shaped how I approach teaching, always focusing on finding new ways to connect with students and help them succeed.