I began a business career after graduating from St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California. My education there also included time at the London School of Economics. Shortly thereafter, in 1987, I experienced a life-changing event—miraculously surviving a rare cancer—which led me to discover my true calling in teaching.

By 1993, after earning my graduate elementary teaching credential from the University of San Francisco, I began my teaching career in Honolulu, Hawaii, where I taught 3rd grade. In 1995, I moved to Houston, Texas, where I taught 2nd grade. My journey eventually brought me to the beautiful town of Ridgway in 1998.

When my son was born in 1999, I was fortunate to spend eight years as a stay-at-home mom. During that time, I also served as a volunteer youth minister, elementary school substitute, board member, and contributor to the newly established Voyager after-school program.

In 2007, I proudly joined the Ridgway School teaching staff. I have taught 2nd and 3rd grade here for the past twenty years. This is an extra special season in my life, as our family has welcomed two beautiful grandsons. Aside from teaching, being a grandma is the best!

Working in the elementary school system, I have seen students develop a sense of educational values and community in a nurturing, safe atmosphere. No other profession offers a greater opportunity to contribute to a child's life. I am privileged to be called a “Teacher.”

A Note From Ms. Furst. 

Welcome to the wonderful world of Second Grade! I am very pleased to teach your child's class this year. 

Second Grade is an exciting and transitional time of learning! By now, your second grader has figured out the ins and outs of elementary school, but even though he/she is practically a school expert, they are still developing mentally. 

Cognitive development psychologist Jean Piaget created a list of the mental capabilities of each age group. Here's what he said second graders were capable of comprehending:

• • A second grader can understand and manipulate symbols related to concrete objects. For example, they can understand that a plus sign means addition and use it when appropriate.

  • Seven and eight-year-olds are becoming logical. Although there are still moments when they jump to conclusions, you'll be able to understand even their most far-out thoughts.

  • Reverse thinking should no longer be an issue. Although a child may have a tough time retracing her mental steps, she should be able to remember how she came to her conclusion.

  • Second graders are still somewhat egocentric, but less so than they were previously. They believe everyone sees the world as they see it, but they can finally understand others' points of view.

  • Second graders can tell if there is a difference in number, length, and volume when comparing two objects. Older second graders should also understand the substance. For example, if they are shown a glass of liquid and then watch someone pour that same liquid into several different containers and then put the parts of liquid back into its original glass, a second grader will know that it's still the same amount of liquid.

This year will be filled with endless learning, exploration, and discovery possibilities. Students will transition from learning to read into reading to learn, write a well-constructed paragraph, and expand their understanding of literature, math, and the broader community around them. They will explore scientific concepts through experiments and field trips and, most importantly, work together as a supportive and encouraging team. We will discover how to make learning fun!

My priority is your child's education and well-being at school. The more support a child has, the better their chance of reaching their full potential, which is why I strongly support the home-school connection. Continual communication through email, Class Dojo, phone, or conference is always welcome and encouraged. I look forward to working with you and your All-Star this year. Contact: jallard@ridgway.k12.co.us, 970-626-5468.