Welcome to Pacific Sky

Professional Experience

I have had many unique teaching experiences for a native San Diegan. I began teaching here, for La Mesa-Spring Valley and then with my husband moved to Baltimore, Maryland and continued to teach. After 5 years, we moved to Atlanta, Georgia and I taught in Gwinnett County for 8 years. Finally, we were able to move back home, here to San Diego where I began to teach in Del Mar. In addition, I have also had the great fortune to teach all elementary grades, Kindergarten through 6th.

Educational Background

  • BA in Liberal Studies- San Diego State University

  • Masters in Administration- Allliant University

  • Specialist Degree in Curriculum, Instruction, Administration and Management- Nova Southeastern University

  • Teaching Credential (K-8)- National University

  • Reading Specialist Credential- San Diego State University

Teacher Contact Information:

sgarfein@dmusd.org


Educational Philosophy
&
What to Expect in Sixth Grade

My passion as an educator is developing independent thinkers, global citizens, and empathetic problem-seekers and solvers. By challenging our students to continuously evaluate systems, structures, and beliefs that shape their world, they will have the confidence to become the next generation of members of our society.


My philosophy aligns with our sixth grade, middle school curriculum. In Social Studies, our we examine the structures of ancient civilizations and explore how each culture has dealt with the issues of survival. In Science, we learn about systems in the human body and in nature, we learn about understanding thermal energy and the effects on climate and weather. Our reading program allows the students to develop their reading skills while understanding the many different devices available to authors and in turn they are able to use those writing devices in their own writing. Our mathematics program builds from the foundations of Kinder-5th grades, and we take all that we have learned about number and and apply it to ratios; percents; fractions; geometry, algebra and statistics.

6th grade is a year for students to increase their independence, curiosity, collaborative communication and problem solving skills while at the same time, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Link to Class Schedule

Link to Class Schedule

Link to Clever
Link to Clever

Life Outside of School

When not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my husband and two daughters. We enjoy gardening and baking, and of course, spending time at the beach!