WELCOME!!! I'm so excited to start on this website journey! Before we really get started, I would like to share my story with you all!

I am Taylor Hitz. I graduated in 2013 from Plainview High School. I went to Wayne State College for 4 years and got my Bachelor's Degree in Middle Level Education with endorsement areas in math and science in May of 2017. (GO CATS!!) My first two years of teaching took place as a Cyclone at Clearwater Public Schools. My first year there, I taught 5th grade homeroom along with 5th & 6th math and science. The second year at CPS, I was the 7-9 math and science teacher. This will be my second year in Plainview teaching. Last year I was 8th grade math and science. This year, however, I will be teaching 7-9 science. My class load this year includes the following: 7th science, 8th science, 9th Physical Science, and a Co-taught STEM class with Mr. Jueden.

This year I have set a couple of goals for myself:

• Relationships. "If we want meaningful change, we have to make meaningful connections to the heart before we can make meaningful connections to the brain." -- George Couros. My number one goal this year, like every year, is to create long-lasting, positive relationships with my students. The kids of PHS deserve my best every single day. I am so blessed to interact with the students that walk into our building.
• Technology use. My goal this year is to use technology in my classroom as much as possible. However, using it all as productive learning opportunities for students. I LOVE Google Classroom and all of the opportunities it has for students to be independent and innovative with their work. A book that I'm currently reading The Innovator's Mindset by George Couros, talks about giving learners opportunities to use their gifts to create and enhance their learning. Some of the current technologies that I use regularly are Quizlet, Quizziz, Kahoot, the Google Suite, Google Classroom, and SoCrative.
• Starting my Masters. I am currently applying and wanting to start classes at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. My hopes are to get my Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

Enough about work... let's talk about family! This past year, I got married to the love of my life! It was an amazing day full of love and laughter with people that mean the most to us. We have our pup named Lily. Let me tell you what, that sweet pup has brought us so much joy!

Extra Duties:

• Volleyball -- Head Coach
• Junior High Track -- Assistant Coach
• High School Track -- Girls Assistant Coach