Welcome Zehnder Ranch 2020-2021 Families!

About Me:

My name is Stephanie Pryor and I am excited to work with the Longhorns of Zehnder Ranch. This is my 15th year teaching, and fourth year in 4th grade.

I grew up in Lake County, two hours north west. I have a large family with 3 sisters and 2 brothers. We spent the majority of our time outdoors, and on the lake. In my youth I participated in swimming, volleyball, softball, cheerleading, and cross country running. With several younger siblings, I knew very early that education was where I belonged.

I moved to Sacramento to attend CSUS where I earned my Bachelors Degree and Teaching Credential in a Blended Program. Immediately after graduating I was hired with Natomas Unified where I taught 2nd grade for six years, and 3rd grade for four years. I moved to Elk Grove and was hired with EGUSD where I taught both 3rd and 4th grades. Within my career, I have dipped my toes in Kindergarten and sixth grades as well. Elementary Education is where the love of learning begins.

I currently live in Elk Grove with my husband Mike, my son Johnathon, and my daughter Juliet. We have 2 dogs, 1 cat, 5 fish, a tortoise, a turtle, and a snake (not by my choice). When I am not teaching, I can be found chauffeuring my children between soccer, baseball, basketball, gymnastics, and dance.

In my free time, I enjoy running, Yoga, reading, traveling, hiking, and playing with my children. I believe the best opportunities we can provide our children with are memories of exploration. During vacation times we travel. We choose a state a year to visit and have been to Oregon, Idaho, Colorado, Kentucky, Missouri, Indiana, Hawaii, Montana, and Washington. We also like to visit out of the country and have been to Costa Rica, Mexico, and the Domican Republic.

My Favorite things:

•Color: Pink and purple •Season: Fall and Spring

•Sport: Giants Baseball! •Flower: Carnations

•Drink: Water and tea •Music: Alternative

•Food: Pizza, pasta, and salads (I’m Italian)

•Book: The Five People You Meet in Heaven, or thriller novels

My teaching philosophy:

My belief is that children deserve to have the highest expectations presented to them, so they can face demanding situations, achieve goals, and feel accomplished. I strive to create a learning enviroment that is not only stimulating, but also academically demanding. I recognize that all students learn in unique ways. With that in mind, I purposly create lessons that allow each scholar to develop their own potentail through different learning styles. My goal is to challenge learners to become proficent problem solvers, critical thinkers, and leaders. All the while done in a safe learning environment built on trust through risk taking.

I recognize that this year is going to present new challenges and opportunities for your child to become more independent. Distance Learning is not ideal for anyone, and we will make this process as smooth as possible for our families. Please feel free to reach out any time you need assistance.

I look forward to working with your family and guiding your scholar through a successful and fufilling 4th grade.