No teacher is the best that she or he can be from the first day in the classroom.

It is with time and experience that we develop skill and knowledge and learn the art of teaching.

Colleen N. Thrailkill, Ed.D., who taught more than three decades, shares a wide-ranging collection of techniques geared to help teach elementary students math, reading, and a sense of environmental responsibility in this book. She also explores how to:

- take advantage of teachable moments;

- meet the needs of every learner;

- bring real-world problem solving into the classroom.

This book is packed with curriculum ideas, teaching philosophy, and practical strategies for navigating teacher life. It will serve as a valuable resource for student teachers, beginning teachers, and veteran teachers.

Join the author as she looks back on the obstacles she overcame in fulfilling her dream of teaching children-and shares lessons to help other educators succeed.