Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Natalie McGinness

Natalie McGinness
Shadow Oaks Elementary
Pre-Kindergarten through 5th Grade, Teacher Librarian

Education
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Texas A&M University at College Station, 2007
Master of Science in School Library and Information Science, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, 2012

Teaching History
Shadow Oaks Elementary, 2013-Present
Exley Elementary, Katy ISD, 2008-2013

Total Years in Education - 8 Years

In her own words . . .


“A positive classroom environment is critical to the success of students. As such, teachers must maintain a safe classroom environment in which students feel highly valued and respected. Likewise, meaningful learning activities should be incorporated in a fun and educational manner. In doing so, students are more apt to engage in the learning material. They will develop a positive attitude toward their education and its relevance to their lives.”

In the words of others . . .

“Natalie is known for her innovation, creativity, and use of best practices that ignite a passion for learning in students. Her technique incorporates strategies specifically designed to meet the needs of learners whether they need auditory, visual, or kinesthetic approaches. Students choose their learning style from the multiple stations that Natalie creates in her Learning Commons. Everyone in her classes learn because they are encouraged and empowered to, yet there is a strong sense of comfort in asking for help from fellow classmates or Mrs. McGinness.” 
Jo Ann Conlon, SBISD Innovative Resource Media Systems Director 

“In just three short years, Mrs. McGinness has transformed literacy on our campus. There is a ‘buzz about books’ throughout our school. In the first year, our students reached their goal of reading over 25,000 books independently before, during and after school. Now in the third year, our students are on target to meet our goal of 55,000 books!”
Julie Baggerly, Shadow Oaks Elementary Principal

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