Welcome to
Sycamore Ridge School
Sycamore Ridge School
Hello! I count it a great honor and privilege to educate students here at Sycamore Ridge. During my time teaching in Del Mar, I have taught 5th and 6th grade classes. I am passionate about educating our upper grade students and providing a space where they feel a sense of belonging, engage in meaningful learning, and grow as student leaders.
Educational Background and Professional Experience:
I graduated from Biola University (summa cum laude) with a B.A. degree in Liberal Studies Elementary Education and a concentration in Spanish.
My student teaching experience was through Biola University where I earned my CA Multiple Subject teaching credential and CLAD certification.
Prior to teaching in Del Mar, I have experiences teaching reading intervention classes and a STEM Academy class at a Title I school in Orange County, CA. Aside from my teaching at Del Mar, I have spent time helping develop and teach English to refugees.
During my time teaching in Del Mar, I have had the opportunity to be a part of the Cultures of Thinking educator cohort and participate as a host teacher with Harvard researcher and educator, Ron Ritchhart. I have also participated in the pilot team for the adoption of a new History Social Science curriculum.
Fostering a culture of thinking is of high importance for the students that enter my classroom. My student’s academic and personal growth are at the forefront of my instruction. I look forward to educating our sixth graders this school year!
Contact Information:
Hannah Russell, Sixth Grade Teacher
hrussell@dmusd.org
858-755-1060 ext. 3801
Educational Philosophy:
I believe that true education allows students to grow, not only academically, but it allows them to increase in their empathy towards others in a diverse, global community. Fostering a classroom environment that promotes communication, collaboration, and celebration of differences is of utmost importance to me. I believe that every child has unique skills and passions that, with quality education and empathy for others, can positively impact our world.
What to Expect in 6th Grade:
Sixth grade is unique in that it is the year that students are becoming more independent and are preparing for middle school. Students in sixth grade are ENGAGED readers. This year, students will be reading and analyzing rich literary and informational texts. Students in sixth grade are THOUGHTFUL writers. We will be writing (many) narrative, argumentative, and informational pieces this year. My hope is that students will leave sixth grade as excellent communicators! In sixth grade, students will be participating in discussion seminars where their thoughts will be voiced, heard, and seen by others. Students in sixth grade are PROBLEM-SOLVERS. Our mathematicians will practice reasoning abstractly and quantitatively through our studies of ratios, fractions, percents, statistics, and geometry. Students will also be learning about ancient civilizations in Social Studies. In Science, students will be engaging in topics including, genetics, body systems, and the environment.
Google Classroom
here
*Only enrolled students logged into their @delmarschools.org email accounts may access our Google Classroom link.
Life Outside of the Stallion's Stable
I am originally from the suburbs of Chicago, IL and moved to Orange County, CA for college. Growing up in the midwest, I loved biking and visiting the city of Chicago (go Cubs!). Additionally, I have a passion for languages, specifically, Spanish. I was able to lead children's camps in a village in Mexico for two summers, which grew my love for teaching and kids. In my free time, I love to be outside! Hikes, surfing, exploring new beaches, and spending time with close friends are some of my favorite things to do. Also, I love to read! Reading inspirational books is a favorite pastime of mine. I am an avid coffee drinker and love finding new local coffee shops. I am excited to get to know the interests of our class this year!
