Teacher Spotlight - Q&A with Ms. Smith, Kindergarten | Enroll Now!

Hello! I’m Ms. Smith and I’m a Conventional Kindergarten teacher at Spectrum Elementary!

Q: Can you tell us about your background? Where are you from?

A: I am originally from Illinois. However, I chose to explore beyond the Midwest and completely fell in love with Arizona! Working with children is my absolute passion, and it inspired my degree in Early Childhood Education from Iowa State University. I also earned minors in Learning Technologies and Child, Adult, and Family Services.

Q: What motivates you the most about being a teacher?

A: Teaching is more than just a job for me—it is my passion. I pour my heart and soul into each and every child I get the opportunity to work with! I am constantly seeking ways to make learning fun, engaging, and meaningful for my students. I promise to love, encourage, and do everything I can to bring out the best in each student.

Q: What kind of environment do you aim to create for your students?

A: My top priority is to build a safe and positive environment where every student feels comfortable and excited to learn, share, and even celebrate mistakes! I strongly believe in creating a classroom family where we all support and encourage one another. We will grow, laugh, and learn together every day.

Q: What is a major focus in your classroom beyond the standard curriculum?

A: A big focus of mine is to help foster a love for learning and instill a growth mindset in each child I teach. I want them to embrace challenges and believe that they can always improve and "shoot for the stars!"

Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

A: When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, shopping, being active, doing crafts, and visiting new places! I also love all things pink, cozy movie nights in, and enjoying the Arizona sunshine whenever possible.

Thank you for taking the time to get to know me! I look forward to getting to know you and your child!

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Spectrum Elementary offers both Conventional and Traditional Kindergarten classrooms. 

Conventional Kindergarten provides rigorous instruction in core academic areas that address the Arizona state standards in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. Conventional also offers rich opportunities for students that promote positive social skills and character development within a structured learning environment.

Traditional offers structured instruction designed to help young learners develop strong academic habits and build confidence from the very first day of school. Students experience a clear daily routine, whole-group instruction, and focused lessons in math and literacy, including programs like Spalding and ReadyGen, which help them build early reading and writing skills.

To learn more about Kindergarten at Spectrum Elementary, visit Spectrum.GilbertSchools.net/Kindergarten.