Every year, I watch nervous little faces walk through my classroom door on the first day of kindergarten. Some cling to their parents, others hide behind their backpacks, wide-eyed and uncertain, while a few eager learners jump right into the new environment. But within weeks—sometimes even days—those same children are running in with bright smiles, eager to share stories, ask questions, and explore the world around them.

To help ease this transition, we gather on the rug and read two of my favorite books. We start with The Kissing Hand, which tells the story of Chester the raccoon and his first day of school, helping children process the big emotions that come with leaving home. Then, we read Our Class is a Family, sparking a discussion about how our classroom is more than just a place to learn—it’s a school family where we grow, support one another, and belong. These stories help validate the emotions my students feel and create a sense of classroom community from day one.

When families choose PCSD 25, they’re choosing more than just a school—they’re choosing a community that nurtures their child’s potential from the very first day of kindergarten. This year is often a child’s first step into the world, and the experience they have shapes their confidence, curiosity, and love of learning. At PCSD 25, we understand that fostering a sense of belonging is just as important as teaching letters and numbers.

As a teacher, I know that belonging is the foundation for success. Research shows that when children feel connected to their school environment, they are more likely to engage, achieve, and thrive. That’s why, from the moment my students walk through the doors of my school and classroom, I make sure they are welcomed by name. This simple yet powerful gesture builds a sense of recognition and belonging, setting the tone for a positive day ahead.

Each morning, we begin outside in our classroom circle, where I greet my students—and they greet each other—with genuine excitement. No matter how I’m feeling, their bright little faces always lift my spirits. I take time to walk around the circle, personally greeting each child, asking about their morning, or offering a compliment on something new I notice. Once everyone is gathered, we walk into the classroom together, hang up our belongings, and prepare for the day ahead.

I always start the morning with a positive interaction—a hug, a high five, or a fist bump—because I want my students to know they are seen, valued, and supported. Inside our classroom, I create a welcoming space where every child can see themselves reflected in the books we read, the artwork on the walls, and the lessons we explore together. Many classrooms, including mine, are also supported by a paraprofessional, ensuring each child receives the individualized attention they need to grow and thrive.

In PCSD 25, learning goes far beyond academics. Social-emotional learning is seamlessly woven into our daily routines, helping children develop essential life skills such as problem-solving, empathy, self-regulation, and collaboration. Every morning, as I welcome my students, I strive to create an environment where they feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. In my classroom, learning isn’t just about worksheets or memorization—it’s about hands-on experiences, curiosity-driven exploration, and meaningful connections. When a child beams with pride after solving a tricky puzzle, comforts a friend who’s having a tough day, or eagerly shares a new discovery, I know we’re building skills that will serve them for life.

Families who choose PCSD 25 become part of a larger community that values the vital role parents play in their child’s education. One of my favorite aspects of teaching here is the strong home-to-school connection we foster. Whether through regular newsletters, classroom updates, or family engagement events, I love providing opportunities for parents to feel involved in their child’s learning. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a child’s face light up when they spot their family at a school event or hearing them excitedly share a classroom experience at home. These partnerships strengthen a child’s confidence and reinforce that learning is a shared journey.

The impact of a positive kindergarten experience extends far beyond the early years, and I am honored to help shape that foundation. When children feel a sense of belonging, they develop confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning. I see it in the way my students grow throughout the year—from timid first-day learners to confident, independent thinkers. PCSD 25 recognizes that every child is unique, and as educators, we work tirelessly to meet individual needs while fostering a cohesive, supportive classroom community. Whether through small-group instruction, personalized learning plans, or access to specialized services, we are committed to ensuring every child thrives.

As Pocatello and Chubbuck continue to grow and evolve, the values that define PCSD 25 remain unwavering: learning, growth, and belonging. These principles guide everything we do, ensuring that every student receives a high-quality education that prepares them for a successful future. For families considering where to begin their child’s educational journey, PCSD 25 offers more than just an excellent academic foundation—it offers a place where every child is seen, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. And as a teacher, there is no greater privilege than being part of that journey.

By choosing PCSD 25, families become part of a community that values education as a transformative force. If you want your child’s education to begin in a place where they are seen, valued, and supported every step of the way, consider PCSD 25—a community where every child belongs.