Kirsten Boyd, Third Grade (email link)
Ms. Kirsten posts one of her favorite quotes, from Samuel Jackson, by her classroom door: "Clear your mind of can't."
As the third grade teacher, Ms. Kirsten and her students master multiplication, division, independent reading, the basics of the solar system and so much more. The hands-on workshops at Effie Yeaw Nature Center and Sutter's For bring history alive. Every spring the third graders spend four days at the Headlands Institute where the outdoors becomes the classroom. www.naturebridge.org/headlands. Ms Kirsten's philosophy promotes independence, compassion, friendship, pride and attention to detail.
Through art projects, Ms. Kirsten encourages children to express emotion and imagination. Students learn of history and culture, gain confidence and develop their own individuality. Students create paper maché animals, art from the Renaissance period and concoct paint from eggs and crushed colored chalk.
A California State University, Sacramento graduate with a degree in Art for Elementary Children, Ms. Kirsten joined Courtyard nine years ago as an extended day care leader and teacher's aide. In 2004, she became the visual and performing arts teacher and in 2005, began teaching third grade. In addition to her passion for teaching, Ms. Kirsten enjoys reading, working in the garden of her home, learning, traveling and spending time with her favorite canine, her brother's dog, Loah. She counts among her most exciting adventures a vacation in Italy and counts the ocean as one of her favorite destinations.
"Courtyard gives teachers freedom to teach the curriculum in the most creative way possible. I make the time to get to know each student as an independent person rather than just a student in a class. I love Courtyard and how it allows me to teach."
