You finished Kindergarten and now you are a First Grader! We know you are excited and probably a little nervous about starting a new school year. We are too!
We want you to know that we have been busy planning many exciting activities for the year and we are thrilled to be a part of your journey in First Grade.
The First Grade is such a special time in your learning adventure! We can't wait to meet you and begin a fun-filled year!
To be ready for first grade, students should have a solid foundation in early literacy and math skills. They should be able to recognize and produce the sounds of each letter, understand both consonants and vowels, and understand how they function in words. Students should also be able to count to 100 and write numbers correctly. Familiarity with number bonds is essential, allowing them to understand simple addition and subtraction (e.g., knowing that 5 + 3 equals 8). In addition, students should be able to write simple sentences, using correct capitalization, punctuation, and spacing between words. These skills will help them succeed as they move into more advanced learning in first grade.
Suggestions for the summer:
Help your student learn how to tie their shoes
Teach them how to open items in their lunch box
Memorize their student ID number (same as kindergarten)
My name is Miss Zellner, and I am passionate about creating a classroom where students feel supported, valued, and excited to learn. I graduated from Northern Arizona University with dual certification in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education. I have been a part of Deer Valley Unified School District for 7 years and have proudly called Greenbrier home for the past 5 years.
I believe in fostering a love of learning while building a classroom community that feels like a family, where every child can grow, succeed, and shine. I also know that a successful classroom would not be possible without strong teamwork between school and home, and I value partnering with families to support each child's learning and growth throughout the year.
I am so excited for the year ahead and look forward to learning, growing, and celebrating successes together! caitlin.zellner@dvusd.org
Mrs. Courtney Berkebile
Hi Honeybee Families,
Welcome to First Grade! My name is Courtney Berkebile and I am so excited to be your child’s teacher this year! We are going to have a great year making new friends, learning new skills and so much more!
I wanted to introduce myself and tell you a little bit about me. I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Grand Canyon University in 2013 in Early Childhood Education. I am very passionate about teaching and helping my students learn and grow in academics but also as little humans! I am married to a wonderful man named Scott. We have one amazing daughter, Ellie and one fur baby, Jett. We love spending time together as a family and traveling to see new places. During my free time, I love to bake, watch documentaries and go shopping!
Let’s work together this year and help nurture our students to be the best they can be!
If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
