Name: Karen Alessandrini
Grade/school: Second grade, Monon Trail Elementary
Years teaching: 11
Education:
Berne Union High School, Sugar Grove, Ohio; B. S. Elementary Education, Miami University, Ohio.
Why did you become a teacher? “Growing up, I had some great teachers and some not-so-great teachers. Those great teachers took time to get to know me beyond my academic skills. By developing a relationship with me, those great teachers made me want to be a better student. I became a teacher so that I could do the same for my students and have a positive impact on them, academically and emotionally.
What goals do you have for your students? “I want my students to learn that it is OK to make mistakes. It is only from our mistakes that we can truly grow as a learner.”
What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen their skills? “I encourage parents to simply spend uninterrupted time with their children. Life can be very busy, but it is so important take whatever little time you have and sit down together and talk about each other’s day.”
Favorite movie: “‘The Notebook.’”
Favorite musician or band: “Sixteen Candles, a local ’80s cover band.”
Something your students might not know about you? “My father was a Drill Sergeant in the Army, so I had the chance to live in many different places while growing up. I’ve lived in Colorado, Hawaii, Korea, Georgia and Ohio.”
