Mrs. Dufendach and Mrs. Wahr share their two classes with a “team teaching” approach.  The 56-57 students have opportunities to feel like they are all one group due to the proximity of their lockers, subject grouping arrangements, and activities we share at times.  This will be our second year with this approach and we feel we have a winning combination!  Mrs. Dufendach teaches reading, writing, spelling. and social studies.   Mrs. Wahr teaches math, science, grammar, and will be reinforcing the writing skills taught by Mrs. Dufendach.

We feel there have been many advantages to our “teaming”.  Students respond differently to teachers with different styles, so we reach kids with all kinds of needs.  Along these same lines, teaming can open a student’s eyes to accepting more than one opinion.  In addition, the cooperation that the students observe between us serves as a model for teaching students positive teamwork skills and  attitudes. 

We have a common planning time and discussions take place on students about whom there are concerns followed by problem-solving on how to best meet that child’s needs.  Research has shown that teaming leads to an improved classroom climate, more frequent contact with parents, higher levels of student achievement, and a more positive attitude by teachers!  Sounds like a good place to be, doesn’t it?  Well, we like to think it is!  We want the children to feel like either of us are approachable for any problems or help that is needed.  As a parent, you may feel free to contact either of us with your concerns and as a team we’ll work to solve the problem.