RISE 24-25

RISE Classroom 24-25

Welcome to an exciting year in our RISE classroom, where every student's unique strengths and abilities are celebrated! Our classroom is a place where students grow, learn, and thrive together, just like a close-knit wolfpack. Here, we focus on fostering independence, building essential skills, and creating a supportive environment where everyone can shine. As we embark on this journey together, we're committed to ensuring that each student receives the individualized attention they need to succeed. We look forward to a year filled with discovery, growth, and shared success!

"Everything negative - pressure, challenges - is all an opportunity for me to RISE." - Kobe Bryant

Class overview

The RISE (Reaching Independence through Structured Education) classroom is a specialized learning environment designed to meet the unique needs of students with special needs. Our classroom focuses on fostering independence, enhancing social skills, and promoting academic growth through individualized instruction and structured support.

Program Highlights:

Personalized Learning: Each student's educational plan is customized to align with their individual strengths, needs, and goals. Our curriculum is adapted to provide meaningful and relevant learning experiences that support academic, social, and emotional development.
Structured Environment: The RISE classroom offers a highly structured setting with clear routines and predictable schedules, providing a sense of security and stability for students. Visual aids, sensory tools, and assistive technology are utilized to enhance learning and communication.
Small Group Instruction: With a low student-to-teacher ratio, we ensure that each student receives the attention and support they need to succeed. Small group and one-on-one instruction are integral parts of our approach, allowing for targeted interventions and personalized guidance.
Life Skills Development: In addition to academics, our program emphasizes the development of essential life skills. Students engage in activities that build independence, self-care, social interaction, and problem-solving abilities, preparing them for success beyond the classroom.
Collaborative Approach: We work closely with families, therapists, and other professionals to create a supportive network for each student. Regular communication and collaboration ensure that we are addressing the whole child and making progress toward their individual goals.
Inclusive Practices: Whenever appropriate, students in the RISE classroom have opportunities to participate in inclusive activities with their peers, fostering a sense of belonging and community.

The RISE classroom is committed to helping students reach their fullest potential in a nurturing and supportive environment. We celebrate every achievement, big or small, and strive to empower our students to lead fulfilling and independent lives.

We are here for you and your student!

Your team,

Ms. Kae, Ms. Hatcher, Ms. Toomey and Mr. Sherman

"You'll never do a whole lot unless you're brave enough to try." - Dolly Parton

ALL ABOUT US

Hello and welcome to the RISE classroom! My name is Brandy Kae. I will be your Rise English Language Arts and Reading teacher, and I’m thrilled to be starting my fourth year at CTMS. I am passionate about creating an inclusive and supportive environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.

As a parent of three wonderful kids, I understand the importance of nurturing individuality and celebrating each child’s unique strengths. I believe that all students deserve the opportunity to learn in a space that is not only safe and structured but also rich with opportunities for growth and connection.

In our classroom, we emphasize inclusion, ensuring that every student feels valued and part of our community.

I look forward to a fantastic year filled with learning, growth, and new adventures. Together, we will make this school year a great success!

With love,

Mrs. Kae

Hello! My name is Mrs. Vanessa Hatcher and I will be starting my 11th year in education. During this time I have spent the majority of my time in the RISE classroom teaching many of the subjects. I also serve as the special education department lead for our campus.

Although I am a classroom teacher, my undergraduate was in vocal performance and communication disorders. I love using my knowledge to help all of my students find their voice to communicate with everyone. I received my masters degree in special education and elementary education and graduated just a couple of weeks before my oldest son was born.

I have two sons, one of which will be a 6th grade at Cross Timbers this year. Mr. Hatcher and I love to spend time with our boys all around town, so do not be surprised if you see us outside of school.

Mrs. Hatcher

Hello Parents! My name is Jamie Toomey and this will be my 5th year in the RISE classroom.

I live in Colleyville with my husband of 20 years and 3 wonderful children. I'm sending my firstborn off to A&M this fall, and have a Junior at GHS and an 8th grader here at CTMS.

It is my mission to make your child feel happy, loved and capable of doing great things here at CTMS! I strive to make sure that each individual child gets the support they need to be successful. I'm so excited to get to know your child this year!

Mrs. Toomey

Hello Hello Everyone!!! My name is Chris Sherman. I will be one of the amazing RISE Paraprofessionals here at Cross Timbers Middle School. This will be my 3rd year at Cross Timbers and I'm sooooo Excited!!! I'm very enthusiastic and mentally strong with high positive energy. I'm excellent in being adaptable, accommodating, and providing great attention to detail.

I'm originally born and raised in St. Louis Missouri. I grew up with an amazing large family of 7 siblings, 4 girls, 4 boys total. I'm the middle child being #4. From Missouri I branched off, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where I served active for 5 years. I was stationed in Camp Pendleton California, and was able to travel the world and help out all walks of life on multiple deployments. After the Marine Corps I was hired on with Denton County Sheriff's Office where I served as an Officer for 4 years.

I recently purchased my first home close by in Euless where I live with the LOVE of my life, my German Shepherd Chita. Chita and I enjoy squirrel hunting at the park, watching the latest and greatest tv shows and scary movies together. We even enjoy splurging at Starbucks a couple days a week with Iced Coffees and Pup-Cups!!! Yummm!!

I'm beyond excited for another fun-filled exciting year for RISE!!! It's going to be incredible!! LETZ GOOO!!!

Mr. Sherman

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