The dual focus of third grade is to encourage independent thinkers and successful members of a school community.  Throughout the year third graders “learn how to learn” and become aware of how they learn best.  They participate in a variety of learning situations: teacher modeled, small groups, partners, and finally independent workers.  This gradual release from teacher to student encourages and enables children to assume responsible for their own learning, thereby empowering and creating competent, confident, and self-sufficient learners.  Since children learn differently, curricula is continuously tailored to effectively meet the needs of the individual.  In addition, all students are provided challenging, ongoing learning opportunities including extension and enrichment.  The classroom serves as a microcosm where children learn how to become positive and productive members of society.  My commitment is to encourage children to reach their highest academic and social potentials as well as to instill a lifelong love of learning.

Gen Bentley, Third Grade Teacher