Welcome to Second Grade!
We are excited to help each other live, grow, and learn in a creative environment. We all have special gifts, abilities, and knowledge to share. We work in large and small groups while monitoring our individual progress. Traditional values and educational goals are combined with research-based techniques to develop the best possible learning environment. Above all, we know that the love of Jesus motivates us to create a happy, lively, and productive classroom.
The educational emphasis in the second grade is twofold. At the beginning of the year, we review the solid foundation of skills and knowledge acquired in the first grade. Then we begin to increase our skills and knowledge based on established state educational standards. We start each day with devotions and a Bible lesson. Our most important studies are reading comprehension and math. Social studies, science, language arts, music, and art round out the curriculum. Our curriculum closely follows state guidelines, but it is special in one important way--all our classes and learning experiences center on the truths of God’s Word.
Second graders love to learn and love to share their learning experiences. In our classroom you will notice displays for our on-going science or social studies projects. The children’s art projects light up the room. The bulletin boards and educational posters reflect the major topics we are currently studying. We always have one space devoted to the Christ-centered school year theme. In addition to displays, you will notice the hands-on materials we use in math and other subjects. We often use computer technologies in the classroom as well. Our classroom embraces Calvary’s mission to provide a goal-oriented and Christ-centered education.
Helen Hartwig has had a variety of teaching experiences since she graduated from Dr. Martin Luther College (New Ulm, MN) in 1977. She taught grades K-4 in Michigan for six years at the beginning of her career. Later she was a substitute teacher in two international schools. Mrs. Hartwig began serving at Calvary in 1996 as the special needs teacher. She has also taught fourth and fifth grades, including departmentalized English in the upper grade classrooms. This will be her fourth year as the second grade teacher. Mrs. Hartwig holds a Masters degree in classroom teaching and will soon receive her state teaching license.
