Meet Mrs. Wilaby
Education and Teaching Experience
I am very excited to be teaching first grade again this year! This is my sixth year teaching, and I am excited to continue being a part of the Prairie Crest family. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Northern Iowa, in Cedar Falls, majoring in Elementary Education with minors in Literacy and Social Studies. I earned my masters degree the University of Nebraska, Omaha in 2014. I previously worked as a first grade teacher in the Council Bluffs Community School District at an International Baccalaureate school. Before taking a full time position in Council Bluffs, I was a long term substitute in a special education classroom which gave me experience with students at all ability levels with various needs. I am proud this year to again be a lab classroom teacher which means I will be helping push the district forward in our practices toward personalized learning and we will most likely have visitors popping in and out of our room all year long to watch the magic of our learning!
Teaching Philosophy
My teaching philosophy is pretty simple. I believe all children can learn and deserve a safe and fun learning environment. I work hard to reach all learners in my classroom every day, no matter what level of understanding they currently have. I believe hands on learning is very important and children can and should take ownership of what they learn. All students deserve to be challenged every day and to have a little fun while doing so. I do my very best to achieve this in my classroom every day through differentiated learning experiences and maybe even some silly songs and games every once in a while.
Behavior Management Philosophy
My job as the teacher is to help children learn to fix their mistakes as well as to understand the consequence of their actions. Our ultimate goal is for children to become independent, lifelong learners, and it is important they learn how to make good decisions in settling differences and taking care of mistakes in constructive ways. I recognize that no one can be expected to follow the rules 100% of the time. When children make mistakes, I help them work through their mistakes with the use of “logical consequences.” Logical consequences are not punishments. They are always to help children see the effects of their actions, repair the situation, and learn to make a different choice the next time something like that occurs. Continued communication between home and school is the best way to support students through their choices, so please help me keep communication open between us whether it be celebrations of student achievement, or concerns about areas in need of improvement.
My goal is to help children believe in their ability to create a caring learning environment. Learning to live by the rules they have created is an important step. If you have any questions about my management philosophy, feel free to contact me.
A Little About Me
I grew up in Marion, Iowa and am the youngest of three girls. I got married in October of 2015, and we will be welcoming our first child in September, 2018. My husband and I spend much of our extra time fixing up our 1960's home. We have two fur babies at home, a cat named Bryzzo, and a labradoodle named Bailey. When I'm not teaching or working on our house projects, I enjoy spending time with my family, going for walks outside, reading, and baking.
A Few of My Favorite Things
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Color: Yellow
Season: Fall
Book: A to Z Mystery
Foods: Pizza and Ice Cream
Hobbies: Baking, Reading, DIY Projects
Things to Do: Spend time with my family