1. Welcome

About Me......

Hello! My name is Gina Howard; Welcome to First Grade!

I am a former graduate of Taconic Hills and graduated from The College of Saint Rose in May of 2006 with a degree in Childhood Education 1-6.

 I also completed my master’s degree in Literacy B-6 in December of 2010.  

It has been a great pleasure for me to return to my alma mater to teach.

Before returning to Saint Rose to earn my degree I worked part-time and was a stay at home mom the remainder of the time.  I live in Valatie with my husband Brian, our two dogs and my mom who lives with us. I have two grown sons,  Matthew and Alex. Some of the things I enjoy doing are walking, swimming and working in my yard. 

One of my favorite teams is the New York Yankees!

  I adore children and although I entered the education profession late in life, I find it so rewarding.  Having the opportunity to be a part of a child’s life and contribute to their growth is completely fascinating to me.  In first grade children learn and grow so much it is amazing to watch their transformation.

I look forward to working closely with the parents and families of all my students in order to ensure a fantastic year!

Contact Me...... 

There are a few ways that you can contact me:

·        Send a note in your child’s mail folder  

When the students enter in the morning they place their folders in a basket;

 I go through them to check for communication or other important items. 

·        Send me an email

I check my email throughout the school day.

            ghoward1@taconichills.k12.ny.us    

Utilize our communication platform "Thrillshare" to message me.   

·        Call the  school 

Office - 325-2820

Please leave a message and I will do my best to get back to you as soon as I have a chance. 

·        Call the main district number, 325-2800 X-2369.  If it is during the normal school day, you can leave me a voice message and I will return your call ASAP.

        I feel strongly that the communication between home and school plays a crucial part in my students’ success.  Please feel free to contact me no matter how simple the issue may seem.  I want to ensure that my students as well as their families feel that there is a good line of communication.