Elementary: Primary - 3rd grade
Tammy Haggerty Jones
Strassburg School
Sauk Village, IL
"I see the world through the eyes of a child. I believe that the world is filled with wonder, that learning is exciting, and that anything is possible with a little imagination, tape, string, glitter and a box of crayons. I teach children that it is acceptable (and encouraged) to take risks, make mistakes, get messy, giggle, and have fun in the process. I promote a community environment that is nurturing, loving, creative, and forgiving."
-- Tammy
"I would like to express my admiration for the teaching style of my child's teacher, Mrs. Jones. From the beginning, I could see that things were different. For example, by trying to draw sprinkles out of a cup of water with a straw, the students learned how a seahorse eats plankton. Almost everyday my daughter comes home bursting to tell me what new and exciting things she learned."
-- Shannon McKay, parent of a current student
As you cross into Tammy's classroom, you notice something exciting is happening inside and out. Every month, Tammy takes the state's learning standards and creates a project-based monthly theme. She creates adventures for her classroom because the majority of her students have never experienced the culture around them. Field trips to near-by Chicago are not permitted, but that doesn't stop Tammy. Through grants she brings Chicago museums and guest speakers to Strassburg School. The class takes imaginary trips. With no art classes, playground or budget for classroom supplies, Tammy asks and receives specific items for local merchants, and the students send notes and photos to thank those who donate. Tammy's belief is, "We have something more valuable than gold - our imaginations."
Other Highlights:
- School representative, The Field Museum of Chicago's Ambassador program; liaison between the school and museum educators; gets to go behind the scenes with scientists and study the museum's artifacts and bring educational experience boxes back to her school for the children to explore
- Hobbies and interests include playing in Chicago with her family and gardening
