Welcome to Kindergarten
Welcome to Kindergarten!
I am so excited to welcome you and your child to a new school year full of wonder, growth, and discovery. Kindergarten is a time filled with new friendships, exciting learning adventures, and big milestones.
This year, we will explore letters and sounds, numbers and patterns, science, stories and so much more. Your child will learn how to be part of a classroom community-how to share, listen, take turns, and solve problems. Most of all, we will work to build confidence and a lifelong love of learning.
Miss Epping’s Amazon Wish List
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2HGDBH48DVXUX?ref_=wl_share
Children take things home in three ways:
In their hands, in their heads, and in their hearts.
Biography – Mrs. Thimsen
Hello, Guten Tag & Aloha.
I am super excited to be your morning 3rd grade teacher and 6th grade math teacher this school year.
I was born and raised in Sioux Falls, SD. I attended Catholic School from kindergarten until I graduated from high school.
I earned my bachelor’s degree from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota and my master’s degree from the University of Colorado Boulder. I have been teaching since 2002, primarily in special education. Shortly after receiving my masters I met and married my husband Grant who is in the United States Army. My husband’s service in the U.S. Army has given our family the opportunity to live in many places, including throughout the United States, Germany (twice), England, and Hawaii. These experiences have allowed me to teach students from diverse backgrounds and have given me a love for learning about different people, cultures, and communities.
My family keeps me busy outside of school as well! My son is a junior at Assumption High School, and my daughter is in 7th grade here at JFK. My dog Kona loves going on long walks everyday after school. My faith and my family are two of the greatest blessings in my life.
I look forward to meeting all of you and beginning this exciting school year together. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and I can’t wait to see everyone on the first day of school!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Thimsen
3rd Grade Teacher
6th Grade Math Teacher
Biography – Miss VanDam
Hello! I’m Ms. Melissa VanDam, and I’m absolutely thrilled to be the afternoon 3rd grade teacher in 3TV. In the mornings I am an aide in Mrs. Blocker’s Preschool Class. This is my 6th year at JFK as an aide and my first year teaching here. Before JFK I worked in education both as a teacher and an aide in Illinois.
I graduated from Judson University with a degree in Early Childhood Education in 2008. I am currently attending the online University of Northern Iowa K-8 Reading Endorsement Program. I am passionate about helping all children enjoy learning. I am especially excited to share my love of Social Studies and Science with the 3rd grade students.
I live in Silvis with my mom, her husband and my cat Firefly. I have a younger sister and brother who both live out west. I love spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy hiking, travelling, and reading in my free time.