Teaneck Public Schools
Foundations Fair
Year One
Teaneck Public Schools
Foundations Fair
Year One
Year One: Understanding Danielson's Framework for Teaching
Goal: Understanding the Domains and Critical Attributes of Highly Effective Instruction
Trainers: Tawana Smith & Saundra Warren-Givens
Tawana Smith
I have proudly served in the Teaneck Public Schools for 28 years and currently work at Hawthorne Elementary School as a 4th-grade inclusion teacher. For 12 of those years, I have had the privilege of teaching Foundations, an experience that has greatly shaped my instructional practices and deepened my commitment to supporting fellow educators.
My motivation to become a trainer stems from a desire to give back, sharing the knowledge, guidance, and inspiration I received from my mentors and former Foundation trainers. They played a significant role in shaping me into the caring and effective educator I am today. I also want to reassure new teachers joining Teaneck that they are not alone—we are all part of the “Teaneck Team,” and collaboration is at the heart of our success.
My goal as a trainer is to support both new and veteran teachers in developing a stronger understanding of how to use the Danielson Framework to plan instruction for our diverse learning community. I strive to improve student learning by helping educators become more reflective in their teaching practice and committed to ongoing professional growth.
Saundra Warren-Givens
Saundra Warren-Givens is a passionate and experienced educator with 29 years of dedicated service in the Teaneck Public School District and currently serves as a Grade 4 Inclusion General Education Co-Teacher at Hawthorne Elementary School. She holds a master’s degree in education and was proudly recognized by the district as the Governor’s Educator of the Year for her exceptional commitment to student learning and achievement.
Throughout her career, Ms. Warren-Givens has remained deeply committed to supporting all learners and creating an inclusive, nurturing classroom environment where every student is empowered to thrive. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom through her role as a Year One Foundation Trainer, a position she has held for the past five years. She mentors new educators on their professional journeys, offering support, encouragement, and insights drawn from her extensive experience. Her motivation to continue in this mentorship role stems from her desire to foster a sense of community among educators and to instill the value of having a growth mindset.
Her guiding motto, “Participation Equals Education,” reflects her belief that active engagement and collaboration are essential to meaningful learning for students and teachers alike. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and her passion for teaching continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of those she serves.
Check out our work from this year!