Chelby Pittman- RFE #3

At Underwood Elementary, the office staff is very friendly and inviting. Every time we come in the receptionist always makes sure to tell us "Good morning" and asks, "How are you?". She also does this with students and parents. The other faculty and staff members are also very nice and always greet me with a smile. I think Underwood Elementary has done a good job of making visitors feel welcomed, which creates a positive atmosphere and community because it makes everyone feel comfortable. The staff has also been very helpful and informative when I have had questions, and the librarian has even made sure we know that the library is open to us for whatever we need. I feel that all the teachers and staff at Underwood are very friendly towards one another. I believe this is why Underwood seems to have a close community where every faculty member is included and respected. I also think having electives has helped in creating a school-wide community. The students get to choose the electives they want to take. Each teacher must teach one elective and this gives the students a chance to know other teachers at the school. It also gives the teachers a chance to develop relationships with students in other grades. These are the ways that I have seen evidence of a strong school community. 

My SBTE acknowledges almost all of her students as they come into the classroom in the morning. This lets each student know she cares about them by recognizing their presence. She also gives students an opportunity to make any announcements they have in the morning. This gives the students a chance to be involved in the classroom. My SBTE always takes the time to make sure her students are okay and if one has seemed to have a rough morning, she takes the time to talk to them or comfort them. I remember one time when a girl hadn't gotten any binders for the school year yet, and it was obviously already after Christmas. My SBTE bought some binders for her and sat on the floor and organized them with her. I believe my SBTE is very good at making her students know she cares, which definitely builds classroom community. The students also help each other out when they get stuck on questions. I think this shows great community because they rely on another. There are also classroom jobs that students get each week. The jobs get them actively involved in the classroom community. I think my SBTE has done a good job of creating a classroom community with her students. 

Underwood Elementary and my SBTE have created a positive atmosphere where students and visitors feel welcomed. I think is important for the community because everyone wants to work together. I know personally, as a visitor, I have appreciated their welcoming and willingness to help.