Meet the CCSD Teacher: Danelle Anderson of Mountain Road ES!

Our amazing teachers are Elevating The Excellence in our schools … and every week, you’ll get to know one of them better through a Q&A posted here. #CCSDElevateTheExcellence

Danelle Anderson
Mountain Road Elementary School 
Third-grade teacher 

What’s the most innovative idea that you’ve tried in your classroom? 
The most innovative ideas I’ve tried were the jigsaw method & problem-based learning.  Giving students a solid outline to guide their learning and then stepping back is valuable to critical thinking and problem-solving.  Exploring real-world scenarios turns knowledge into wisdom through application.  Both methods promote collaboration, technology integration and high levels of engagement — all of which support getting today’s kids ready for tomorrow’s world. 
Who is the best teacher you ever had and what made him or her special?
Mr. Jurassic, my fourth-grade teacher, was my favorite!  I had moved from Florida to Illinois, and he helped ease my transition. He knew how to make each child be seen.  Because of his influence, I understand the value of creating a classroom where each child feels welcome, safe, and part of an equitable environment.  He made my year as the new kid a terrific one! 
What can parents do to prepare their children for learning?
Read, read, read!  I urge parents to read to their child and with their child.  Read signs while driving down the road, read menus – help kids realize it’s a part of everyday life.  Be patient, give it time, and please don’t throw in the towel!  When tears flow and a kid struggles, it’s easy to give up, but they need you!  Take a break and try again the next day.  Reading is a part of life and key to preparing children for learning.  
What are the obstacles to getting all kids to achieve?
Some obstacles to getting kids to achieve include environmental factors, learning disabilities, language barriers, anxiety, and motivation.  Getting to know students’ interests and creating a positive learning environment can go a long way to helping students through these obstacles.  Building relationships builds trust.  All students are capable of learning and if you believe in them, they begin believing in themselves. 
#CCSDElevateTheExcellence