Mira Vista Elementary School

Mrs. Cruger - Hansen

Biography

A native of Bryan, Texas, I received a BA degree in Fine Arts at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. After graduating, I moved to Southern California and continued my studies at the Art Institute in Pasadena. I was then employed as a Jr. Art Director at SSC&B Advertising Agency in Los Angeles.

After moving to El Cerrito with my family in 1986, I became involved with WCCUSD ad Madera Elementary School. I initially volunteered at Madera, and later became a RSP Aide. In 1993 I became a Special Education Aide for an Autistic student in a full inclusion program at Madera. In 1997 I enrolled in WCCUSD/CSU Hayward's Intern Program and was employed by WCCUSD as a 4th grade Teacher at Madera. In 1998 after finishing the program, I transferred to Mira Vista where I began teaching 4th grade. In 2002 I switched to teaching 1st grade.

I enjoy quilting and reading in my spare time.

I live in El Cerrito with my husband and three daughters.

cruger@email.msn.com

Classroom Policies

It is important that a child have a healthy breakfast every morning before leaving for school and that they get at least 10 hours of sleep every night. This ensures that the student stays focused and on task in the classroom.

I start class promptly at 8:30. Please get your student to class on time so that they may not miss any instruction time.

Homework is reinforcement or practice for a concept or skill previously learned in class. I assign math, reading, writing and spelling homework daily. Homework assignments should take no longer that 1/2 hour. If it does, I need to know since this indicates that there may be a problem. Students must turn in all homework when due.

I expect my students to read for at least 20 minutes daily with an adult. A parent or guardian must initial the reading log after the assigned 20 minute reading. (I recommend restricting Nintendo, computer and TV time for the student. They should be reading or doing other appropriate activities.) The reading log sheets are sent home beginning the second week of school and are due on the last day of the same week.

I welcome help in the classroom. Question or concerns? Reach me at 232-4064. Leave a message and I will respond as soon as possible, or email me at cruger@email.msn.com.

Philosophy

First Grade is a very important year for all students. Students who actively participate and cooperate in learning do better. I use positive reinforcement to obtain students' cooperation and participation in class and to help students feel good about themselves. The more cooperation and participation I get from the class, the more teaching time is increased.

Our actual class agreements (rules) are written each year by the students themselves and so are different each year. I have high standards for ALL students. There are, however, constant guiding principles I follow in the classroom.

* Nobody gets hurt in the classroom

* Each student has my respect right from the start

* Each students deserves and receives respect both from me and from fellow students

* All adults at the school deserve respect from the students

* Problems will be solved appropriately, by discussion and cooperation, not with force. Problems and differences interfere with learning. Learning to handle these differences responsibly is a big step toward growing-up.