The Kestrel Team

Mrs. Bellis

Hi! I'm the sixth grade English Language Arts teacher on the Kestrel team. 

This year we will be exploring both narrative, informational, and argumentative writing. We will also dive into grammar through investigating authentic writing. In addition we will be independently and collaboratively reading all types of genres (fiction, nonfiction, poetry, etc.). We will also have opportunities for cross curricular projects and presentations. 

I can be reached at:

kbellis@salisburysd.org

Mr. Beyer

Hi! I'm the sixth grade Learning Lab teacher on the Kestrel team. 

This class is focused on two things:

1. Executive function skills -- the stuff we assume all adults can do, and what students can start developing now. Thinks like planning, prioritizing, and managing emotions. We'll develop these skills through learning about them, reflecting on them, and doing the second thing, which is:

2. Project-based learning -- projects that are related to the other core classes that students will plan, develop, and present to their classmates.

I can be reached at:

dbeyer@salisburysd.org

Mrs. Castagna

Hi!  I'm the sixth grade math teacher on the Kestrel team.  

This year we will be exploring the following areas of study:  area, surface area, ratios, unit rates and percentages, dividing fractions, expressions and equations, rational numbers, and data sets.  We will be using a math journal, math workbooks, online Zearn lessons and practice, and few other practice websites.    

I can be reached at: 

mcastagna@salisburysd.org 

Mr. Schweyer

Hi! I am the 6th grade science teacher on the Kestrel team.  This year we will be exploring and discovering information about ecosystems, real world forces, oceanography, and the nature of matter.  We will use a variety of experiments and hands on activities to reinforce the concepts we are learning.

I can be reached at:

gschweyer@salisburysd.org

Mrs. Yurconic

Hello there!!  Welcome to 6th-Grade Social Studies and the Kestrel Team! There is always something fun and educational going on in the classroom.  Students enjoy working together on projects while investigating their own thinking and learning styles within the classroom! I look forward to working and assisting the students as they develop into life-long learners.

My current assignment is on the 6th grade Kestrel Team teaching social studies, which includes geography review with a concentration on ancient civilizations.

I can be reached at:

cyurconic@salisburysd.org

Mr. Makhoul

I am a support teacher on the 6th grade Kestrel Team. Before coming to Salisbury Middle School, I taught at the elementary level in the Allentown School District.  I earned my Bachelor's Degree from Penn State University (We are!) and my Master's Degree from Lehigh University (Go Hawks!).  When I'm not in school, you can catch me enjoying my family, playing in my yard, DIY-ing something, or listening/singing/dancing to music.

I can be reached at:

amakhoul@salisburysd.org

Mrs. Neitz

Hello! I am one of the learning support teachers supporting some of the 5th and 6th grade students. I have previously taught in Allentown and Nazareth before becoming a Falcon. I earned my Bachelor's Degree from Bloomsburg University and my Master's Degree from Cedar Crest College. I live in Salisbury with my husband, Gary, daughters, Bailee (11th grader) and Brinlee (6th grader), and our dog Sunday. When I am not teaching, I enjoy, walking, watching our daughters play sports, and spending time with friends and family. 

I can be reached at :

bneitz@salisburysd.org