Meet the CCSD Teacher: Christie Williams of Hasty ES Fine Arts Academy!

The talent of our teachers is unparalleled and their dedication to go the extra mile is unmatched. Every week, you’ll get to know one of our valued educators better through a Q&A posted here. #CCSDElevateTheExcellence

Christie Williams
Hasty ES Fine Arts Academy
Kindergarten teacher 

What’s the most innovative idea that you’ve tried in your classroom? 
I love using manipulatives to teach the phonemes when blending words.  My scholars enjoy using cars, magnets and felt squares to produce each phoneme and blend the sounds together. 
Who is the best teacher you ever had and what made him or her special?
My fourth-grade teacher is the best teacher I ever had.  Mrs. Smith made learning fun and engaging and I knew that she truly cared about each one of her students.  A group of us girls even spent the night at her house one school night.  I remember having pizza, playing charades, and her bringing us to school really early the next morning. 
What can parents do to prepare their children for learning?
Reading with their child has such a strong impact on children’s learning.  Also, having a strong communication line with the teacher is important.  I value having a positive relationship with the parents in my classroom and communicate often with them in various ways. 
What are the obstacles to getting all kids to achieve?
An obstacle I experience in my classroom is overcoming the language barrier.  Many of my students are multilingual learners and speak a different language in their home.  Using hand gestures and picture supports in the classroom have helped with their understanding of the English vocabulary.
 
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