Welcome to
Sycamore Ridge School
Sycamore Ridge School
Educational Background and Professional Experience: 2001 Bachelor's Degree in Human Development with a Minor in Education from UCSD, 2003 Master's Degree in Education from UCLA; with further experience through UCLA's Algebra Project, promoting higher level of cognitively guided mathematical methods. In New York City, I worked closely as a lab classroom with Teachers College Reading and Writing Project, at Columbia University. In Del Mar, I participated in the Del Mar Union School District's Technology Institute to research best practices to incorporate technology into the classroom, served as a Common Core Math Lead Teacher for the district, and participated in pioneering a pilot for the district's first modern learning studios.
Teacher Contact Information: dchung@dmusd.org
Days in Room D7: Tuesday-Friday
Educational Background and Professional Experience: I have a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with a Teaching Spanish Minor from The University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire. I received my Master's Degree in Curriculum Design from the University of San Diego. San Diego City Schools is where I started my teaching career from 2003-2008. In 2008, I happily accepted my teaching position in Del Mar. Teaching at Sycamore Ridge has been an incredible professional experience. I will be supporting students in small focused groups as well as teaching 4th grade in a job share with Mrs. Chung on Mondays.
Teacher Contact Information: hkowieski@dmusd.org
Days in Room D7: Monday
Educational Philosophy & What to Expect in Fourth Grade
Every moment is a learning opportunity to cultivate a responsive and caring culture. The lens we will use to capture the Portrait of Learner are: adaptability, critical thinking, global citizen, emotional integrity, learner's mindset, and depth of knowledge. It is our priority to build meaningful relationships with each child. We look forward to sharing this journey together.
Life Outside of the Stallion's Stable
I was born and raised in San Francisco, CA. I moved to La Jolla to attend UCSD, where I met my husband. I grew through my teaching experiences in Los Angeles, New York City, and back to San Diego for the past 20+ years. During the past 17 years in San Diego, my husband Tae and I deepened our roots along with our sons, Andre (Freshmen at Torrey Pines High School), Blake (5th grade Stallion), and Carter (preschooler at Ashley Falls). Currently, we spend a lot of time watching our boys play competitive basketball and taking family trips.
The role of a teacher comes with joy and passion. I am so grateful to share this learning journey together!
Life Outside of the Stallion's Stable
I am originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin-Yes, I am a cheesehead! I have fallen in love with the natural beauty and the fun outdoor activities that can be enjoyed year round! Ironically, I came all the way to San Diego to meet my Wisconsin born husband! Mark and I have two wonderful little "Kow Girls," Caitlin (12) and Julia (10). They are the loves of my life! Caitlin will be starting 7th grade and Julia will be starting 5th! Our favorite things to do are going to the beach to surf the waves, play in the pool, bike around the neighborhood, practice our soccer and gymnastics moves, and sing broadway musical songs loudly throughout the house. I look forward to the adventures our girls will continue to take us on! Ways that I like to recharge are going on long walks with friends, practicing yoga, and playing tennis/pickleball. I also LOVE going out to dinner!
I am passionate about teaching, working with the amazing staff and community, and inspiring the students at Sycamore Ridge!
