Writing Rubric

Hello! My name is Jacob Pierce, and I am thrilled to be featured as a spotlight teacher for OMSD. I am a special education teacher at Del Norte Elementary with seven years of experience teaching for this district. Out of college I was an ABA therapist, Behavior Specialist for a Private school, and finally found a home with OMSD.  I am passionate about creating a learning environment that is silly, fun, and engaging for all my students.

In my classroom, laughter is a key ingredient to learning. I believe that when students enjoy their time at school, they are more motivated to participate and take risks. My teaching style is infused with humor and creativity, ensuring that each day is an exciting adventure for my students.

One of my strengths is classroom management. I create a structured yet flexible environment where students feel safe and supported to express themselves. I do this by using a behavior sheet to create accountability with students and it has worked very effectively. 

I utilize Kagan strategies to promote cooperative learning and ensure that every student has a voice. These strategies help my students develop important skills such as leadership, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

I am dedicated to empowering my students by providing them with opportunities to take on leadership roles within the classroom. Whether it's leading a group activity, presenting their ideas to the class, or helping a peer, my students are constantly encouraged to step up and shine. This not only boosts their confidence but also fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration.

My goal is to create a classroom where every student feels valued and capable of achieving their full potential. By focusing on individualized instruction and hands-on learning experiences, I strive to meet the unique needs of each student and help them succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about my teaching journey. I am excited to share my experiences, insights, and the joy of teaching with all of you. Let's continue to inspire and support each other as teachers at OMSD. 

Best wishes,