Room 116
Getting to Know Ms. April
A Little Background…
I have been teaching English language learners (ELL) for 10 years. I taught 8 years in Skokie, Illinois took a break when my second son was born, and have spent the last two years teaching ELL at Nettelhorst. Nettelhorst is similar to Skokie in that it is fortunate to have students from all over the world! Here at Nettelhorst students come to us from places far away as China to closer locals such our neighbor to the south in Mexico. I have always wanted to be a teacher and earned a degree in teaching as an undergraduate student from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. From there I became interested in working with English language learners and earned an endorsement in teaching ELL along with a Master’s in Reading from Northeastern University in Chicago. Along the way, I have continued my Spanish studies in Chicago and abroad in Spain and Costa Rica.
What I Like Most About Teaching…
I love working with children and enjoy creating an environment for children that is engaging and fun. To me, there isn’t a better job in the world and feel fortunate to have the honor to educate and improve the lives of children each day.
Hobbies or Interests…
When I am not with my two loving and sweet boys, one who is in kindergarten at Nettelhorst this year, I love spending time outdoors running, biking, and camping. I am an athletic person and love to keep moving. This summer my family and I took a wonderful camping trip where we were able to hike, swim, and spend time on a boat. It is important to me that children and my own children appreciate the beauty of our world. Since I love to move, I enjoy dancing as well. When I finally rest, reading and discussing books with my favorite librarian (my mother-in-law) is another favorite!
What I Want Parents to Understand or Know…
I work closely with classroom teachers to ensure ELL content is connected to learning in my students’ homeroom class and am always willing to supplement work for certain areas of practice your child may need or want. Working with small groups allows me the flexibility to individualize work as much as possible. I check my email often and am always happy to respond to questions, concerns, or suggestions. I look forward to another fun and engaging year with your children.
Laura April (ljberger@cps.edu)
Ms. April's
English Language Learner Website
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