Dear Families,
Welcome back to school! I am thrilled to welcome your child to third grade and can't wait to get started!
My approach to teaching has been shaped in part by my own life experiences and the many role models I have had. Because of my own childhood, I understand that school is so much more to a child than academics. I know that helping children find their place in the world is an important part of my work. For this reason, I employ a service-learning pedagogy in my classroom. Service-learning is a teaching method which integrates meaningful community service with rigorous academics and reflection. Senator John Glen refers to it as “academics in action.” Through service-learning I am teaching and motivating children to be change agents in their world.
“Win together, lose together, play together, stay together.” This quote by Debra Mancuso sums up my feelings on classroom environment. I foster a supportive classroom, where children are not only proud of their own accomplishments, but those of their classmates as well. We all lean on each other and students know that I am not the only resource in the room. I am a facilitator, rather than dictator, of learning. When I say, "team", that includes you guys. I want you to feel welcome and free to ask questions.
I received my undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and my Masters in Education from Texas State. This will be my 19th year of teaching (and learning). I am the single mother of three amazing children. Emily is a freshman at Texas A&M, Ryan is a freshman at Round Rock High School and little Matthew is in first grade right here at Elsa England.
I promise to give one hundred percent to your child’s learning and personal growth. We have an exciting year ahead!
Sincerely,
Rachael Brunson, M.Ed.
A note from the teacher......
My silly kids!
Astronaut Mark Kelly and Mr. Charles Butt of HEB
Bobby Bones and I each threw out the first pitch at the Round Rock Express game. His aim was way better than mine!
Former Superintendent, Dr. Jesus Chavez & I at the Hunger Warrior Rally 2013
Mr. Chadwell, President of the Board of Trustees, and I at the Partners in Education Gala.
Commissioner of Education, Robert Scott: 2011
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President of Partners in Education, Gregg Miller and his lovely wife Gail. |
Another one with Mr. Miller
2012 First Day of school at Elsa England Elementary with Fred Cantu
Dr. Chavez and my good friend, Ana
Doug Rogers and I at the ATPE Summit. He is retiring this year after 30+ years of devotion to kids and teachers. 2013
Author, Alfie Kohen
Singer/song writer Robert Earl Keen
Pascale Brady of the Sodexo Foundation
My favorite singer/song writer ever.... Mr. Lyle Lovett
2013 Mayor Alan McGraw and I
Representative Rodriguez & I at the Hunger Warrior Rally---May 9, 2013
The Brunson Bunch
Alan, "Doc", Babin--- Alan visited with our group of Soldier Buddies. They were so excited to meet this true American hero!
Another one with Mr. Lovett
Senator Eddie Lucio presents our class with a flag that was flown above the Capitol for thier work during our Hunger Warrior project.
Writing guru, Barry Lane with good friends---- Mrs. Eichel, Mrs. Lyle, Mr. Grubb & Mrs. Havrda
RRISD Superintendant, Dr. Steve Flores. 2013
Four blessings.... my precious grandmother and three children.
Author/Service Learning consultant: Cathryn Berger Kaye and Phillippe Cousteau: Environmental Advocate
One of our class projects, "Every Drop Counts" is featured in the book: Make a Splash.
Scott Ganske, Director of Education for Youth Service America, and I at the National Youth Leadership conference in Washington DC.
Honored to be in the middle of two men who truly believe in the youth of America: Senator Harris Wofford and Youth Service America CEO, Steven Culbertson.
Professor James Toole from the University of Minnesota.
Patricia Hall, President of H2O for Life