Teaching BackgroundHi! I'm Ms. Polacek! I am so excited to be returning to the Middleton community this year. This will be my 9th year of teaching. I graduated from St. Louis University with a degree in Elementary Education and began my teaching career in Denver, Colorado teaching Special Education through Teach for America. Here I also got my Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Urban Leadership.
After 2 years, I moved to St. Louis where I taught a year of 1st grade and a year of 2nd grade. Finally, I moved back to Chicago and for 3 years taught 3rd grade in Oak Park. Last year was my first year at Middleton teaching 5th grade. I am currently working on my 2nd Masters and becoming a Reading Specialist at Dominican University. |
Who I am |
I am originally from the suburbs of Chicago and grew up in Western Springs. I am one of three children in my family and right now I have 5 nieces! They live in Colorado and Seattle, so I spend a lot of time visiting when I can. There is another niece on the way and finally a nephew. Both of which are due in January!
I love to travel and especially be surrounded by nature. My goal is to visit all 50 states and every National Park! If I'm not at school, I'm probably camping or sitting in a park reading a book! I am looking forward to having an amazing year at John Middleton Elementary!! |