Coyote Creek Elementary
COLLABORATING TO INSPIRE ACHIEVEMENT
Miss. Culek
cculek@dcsdk12.org
Hello, my name is Miss Culek and I am excited to be teaching 3rd grade at Coyote Creek Elementary this year! Originally from Iowa, I attended the University of Northern Iowa where I received a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Literacy Education. I have lived in Colorado for a year and recently relocated to Highlands Ranch. I enjoy living in Colorado and all that this great state has to offer. I love being outside hiking, biking, skiing, gardening, or just relaxing with a good book!
Through my education and experience, I have learned to appreciate the value of building relationships with students, families, and fellow educators. I believe children learn best in a compassionate classroom where all students feel welcome, comfortable, and valued. I look forward to keeping my students challenged, motivated, and excited to learn! If you see me around, please stop and say hello, I look forward to meeting you and your family!
Mrs. Culek
Mrs.Behrens
abehrens@dcsdk12.org
Welcome to the 3rd grade. I am looking forward to the new year and grade level.
I came to Coyote Creek 3 years ago via San Diego. My husband and I took our family apple cart, and flipped it on its side; we traded surfboards for snowboards, and beach cruisers for mountain bikes. We are continuing to enjoy this beautiful state as much as possible, well, between the hectic schedules of our kids. I am certain that you can identify.
I have been teaching since 1996! My experience has been primary grades, so the 3rd grade will be a welcome and appropriate challenge. Last year I also completed a masters in Educational Leadership with Regis. I love learning, but grad school at 45…Let’s just say that I was happy to put that behind me.
I love teaching. I cannot say that I have a favorite content area, it’s always changing. I enjoy creating a little classroom community, or family, if you will. I am a believer in the need for strong foundational skills, but I also embrace project based learning. I believe that students thrive in environments that have routine and structure. I hold high expectations for my students, but I meet these expectations with lots of support. My classroom, I believe, is a fun place to learn and grow.
One of my goals this year is to increase the amount of time and opportunities for students to reflect on their learning. Research is clear that these opportunities allow students to “untangle” information in order to create deeper meaning. This isn’t new or revolutionary at all. I think that many of us get caught up in “starting the next” without bringing soft closure to what we just did.
Another goal of mine is to help all of my students love learning, embrace challenges and frustration, and be happy to be at school.
Please be in touch this year. We are partners in this!
Mrs. Behrens
Mrs. Geary
kimberly.geary@dcsdk12.org
Welcome to 3rd Grade! I am looking forward to an amazing school year with your child at Coyote Creek Elementary!
I have been teaching in Douglas County since 2005. I’ve been fortunate to teach second grade through fifth grade in Parker, Colorado.
I am originally from Illinois. My husband and I have a beautiful daughter and two sweet and spicy dogs. In my free time, I enjoy running, hiking, going to the movies, reading, learning, and most of all, spending time with my family.
I am looking forward to getting to know your child, share in their interests, and find what works best for their learning. Your child and I will work together to continue their academic journey, and build upon their strengths. My overall goal is to nurture their love of learning and support them as they continue their growth in exploration, risk-taking, self-efficacy, and self-advocacy.
Again, I couldn’t be more excited to be your child’s teacher this year, and I am looking forward to working with you and your child! I am confident we are going to have a magical year full of discovery, learning, and growth!
Mrs. Geary