Education Resources
Library literacy and support for local educators and students
Newsletter Q&A with Crystal Wade
Crystal is the Shady Cove School's 8th Grade Teacher
What drew you to a career in education?
I was born a teacher. I realized it when I came home from my 1st day of school and taught my 3 younger siblings what I had learned that day with gusto. I have also been gifted the ability to see potential in students and the overwhelming desire to help them meet that potential. Teaching gives me the opportunity to do that every day.
Out of all the grades in middle school, what do you love about teaching 8th graders?
8th grade is a magical time of transformation and I love getting to help people become their best self. Most students spend at least part of their middle school experience like a cocooned caterpillar-one hot mess- but then I get to help them reorganize, collect skills and assess their values, and come out as the person they want to be. If I can help them be successful in their transformation, they will be set up for success all throughout their lives.
What are your thoughts on how schools and public libraries can work together to support students’ literacy and continued learning during the summer?
Our library supports the school by providing awesome experiences for the students (such as Book Speed Dating) that encourage them to explore different genres of literature. While we are there, they are always sure to invite the students to the events happening outside the school day and over the summer. The summer activities at the library and reading challenges also encourage students in this area.
What is one positive practice you’ve implemented this year that students responded to?
This year I have incorporated STEAM challenges into our social emotional learning time to help groups learn how to work collaboratively. My favorite was the Beach Ball Boogie Challenge because each student got to show off their design and groovy dancing skills during the testing phase. It’s been great fun, and the class seems to have learned a lot about cooperation and empathy along the way.
We know you are conducting Shady Cove's summer programming for students, but how are you taking some well-deserved time for yourself during these summer months?
Teaching summer school is a joy. I don’t have any big plans, but I will continue to do what I love during my free time-singing worship songs, hiking, painting, Bible studies, puttering around the property with my animals, and (hopefully) putting on a 5 Day Club/VBS for the kiddos in Trail.
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JULY RESOURCES
First Time for Everything by Dan Santat
In this feel-good coming-of-age memoir, the best-selling author and Caldecott Medalist shares his life-changing middle school trip to Europe during which he experiences a series of firsts, including first love.
Grade Level(s): 5th & up | Genre: Graphic Novel/Memoir