Explorer Elementary School boasts a robust team of educators dedicated to creating a positive and nurturing learning environment for their students. Under the leadership of Paige Hill, Explorer’s new Principal, the school has implemented innovative strategies to foster academic growth and personal development. “The culture of our school is driven by the staff, students, families, and our community. The infectious energy that our passionate staff members emit radiates throughout the school and is deeply impactful. You can feel the energy when you walk in the doors. Love emanates from every staff member, which is evident in the dedication to their craft and the joy they bring to our students,” shared Hill. “My mission is to aid as a support system, educational coach, and resource for parents, teachers, students, and community members. Explorer focuses on building positive relationships and rapports with each student, unlocking resources to nurture their growth, fuel curiosity, and embed a passion for successful lifelong learning.”
Tammy Spencer, Librarian at Explorer, creates a supportive and collaborative atmosphere in the library space in the elementary school. Spencer encourages students to always incorporate time for reading into the school's daily routine. She leads students in mindfulness and kindness exercises, STEM activities, and just simply enjoying a good read in one of the library’s many different nooks. “Time in the library helps me see and learn new things, and make my brain work in a different way. I like that she includes hands-on activities, because it helps me learn in new ways” commented Remi Riddle, Third Grader at Explorer.
Spencer encourages her students to explore new ideas and try different approaches to absorbing information. For example, she might challenge her students to read a genre of book they've never tried before, or to experiment with different study techniques to see which methods might suit them best. “I like reading in Mrs. Spencer’s library because it helps me learn about lives that are different from mine,” shared Kaleigh Etheridge, Third Grader at Explorer. By motivating students to grow in their own ways, Spencer helps them develop a forward-thinking mindset and an ethic focused on progressing themselves.
Emily Blasi, First Grade Teacher at Explorer, utilizes a variety of strategies in her classroom to help students navigate learning in their own way. She incorporates positive behavior incentives, such as “brag tags” and “glow notes” to encourage students to spread positivity and kindness. Another tactic practiced in Blasi’s classroom is allowing "brain breaks" throughout the school day. These brief pauses allow students to take a step back from their studies for a moment, and engage in activities that promote relaxation and focus. “My goal is to make our classroom a home away from home FULL of fun, laughter, exploring, and learning,” expresses Blasi on her teacher webpage.
After 20+ years of teaching First Grade, it’s easy to see why she is a driving force behind the school's positive culture. Blasi consistently promotes academic achievement, social-emotional well-being, and a love of learning. She believes that every student has the potential to succeed, and she is committed to providing them with the resources and support they need to reach their full potential.
Explorer Elementary School is just one testament within Goddard Public Schools to the power of dedicated educators, committed to creating a positive and nurturing learning environment. Through innovative strategies like “brain breaks,” personalized learning, and a supportive school culture, the educators at Explorer are helping students develop the skills and attitudes they need to succeed in school and beyond. Providing world-class educational opportunities for all, while utilizing resources in the most efficient and effective manner possible, is just one way our #265Family educates all students for lifelong success.
