Welcome and thanks for stopping by!
I’m Amanda, a mom, wife, and former second grade teacher turned literacy coach in Massachusetts, and the creator of Second Grade Smiles. I have a Master’s in Teaching, a Bachelor’s in Psychology with a focus in School Psychology, a Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) teacher endorsement, and a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Associate Credential. I am also a Google certified teacher and trainer.
I was a classroom teacher for eleven years and I am passionate about creating hands-on, authentic learning experiences for students and incorporating opportunities for inquiry, cooperative learning, and creativity throughout each day in the classroom. These goals have led me to spend much of my time outside of the classroom creating lessons and activities that meet our curriculum standards and the needs of each unique group of students in an engaging and purposeful way. Most recently, I’ve had the opportunity to share my skills and experience with other teachers in my district as a districtwide literacy coach.
I’ve shared my ideas online in my Teachers Pay Teachers store, Second Grade Teachers Facebook Group, and on social media accounts for several years now and love connecting with other teachers. Along with the smiles on the faces of students, you all inspire me every day! I’m excited to share even more of what worked well in my classroom through this blogging journey and look forward to connecting with you!