SPRING HILL, Fla. — How do you reach the hearts and minds of young students to get them excited about learning?
Make it fun.
This week’s A+ Teacher Kristen Bilodeau takes classroom transformation to a whole new level.
What You Need To Know
- Kristen Bilodeau is this week's A+ Teacher
- Bilodeau teaches 5th grade at Spring Hill Elementary
- Want to nominate an A+ Teacher? Click here for more, and to view previous stories
Bilodeau, a 5th grade teacher at Spring Hill Elementary is reaching her kids – and their parents. And she’s creating academic success for her students.
"I think about something that's really exciting and fun, and I find a way to tie standards to the fun," Bilodeau said. "I had a few teachers in my life that were true inspirations, and I wanted to be that for the kids, and again, making learning fun. School isn't something that kids, especially in 5th grade, are jumping out of bed to go do
“But when you make it fun, they want to be here, and I want to be that person for them."
That means creating an interactive classroom with music, movies, interactivity and theme-based lessons.
She believes in hands-on activities and always makes it fun to keep her students engaged.
"Ms. Bilodeau creates an accepting, warm culture focused on relationships in her classroom,” said Kristen Tormey, the Spring Hill Elementary principal.
Also, Bilodeau’s love of family shines through.
She uses social media to allow parents to take part in the academic adventure.
"They will see what they're kids are doing each day,” said Bilodeau. “And they love seeing their comments. Last week, we had the parents actually join in, and I sent the codes all day long. They got involved and were able to compete against the kids.
“With Covid, we can't have parents come in, so I try to find ways for them to feel welcome in our classroom and involved in our lesson."