All About Mrs. M

My name is Kris Maehren and I love teaching kindergarteners! Since completing my Bachelor of Arts degree at

the College of St. Benedict, I have taught for 18 years--in almost every grade from preschool through sixth grade

with most of my experience in Early Childhood (preschool through grade one).

I live in Clearwater with my husband, Ken. We have three children. Two at the University of St. Thomas and one in high school. My family enjoys spending time together playing board games (Settlers of Catan, anyone?), boating, going to movies and especially traveling. We have been very lucky to visit many places around the world. Some of my favorites have been Yosemite, Gettysburg, Boston, London, Paris, Venice and Rome.

I am constantly learning and always looking for new ways to help my students discover learning. I enjoy learning from my students as much as I hope they enjoy learning with me. Nine years ago I also had the

opportunity to become a teacher of teachers. I have presented at many teacher workshops

and conferences throughout Minnesota. In addition to teaching, I am a learner too! This spring

I completed my Masters through the College of St. Scholastica with a concentration in technology.

I am a tech-nerd at heart and I love finding new ways to use it in the classroom.

Teaching is one of my greatest joys. I love each of my students for the unique individual they are becoming. They come in at different levels with a distinctive learning style and it is my job to meet them where they are and raise them to their highest potential during our time together. My goal is to challenge everyone to their highest level and to become active participants in their own learning.

The most important skills we will learn this year won't be in a textbook. As a caring parent, allow your child to

practice having owenership of their learning. Allow them to be responsible for themselves and make mistakes

which you could prevent. We often learn more from making mistakes than faking perfection. Give them the gift

of this independence to help them become stronger, more committed learners and problem solvers.

This is a lesson that will last a lifetime.

Currently, I teach a fifth grade homeroom and math as well as all social studies for fifth and sixth grade. Your child will have a great team of teachers to learn with this year. Together we are all partners in your child's education and it's going to be a great year!

God Bless~ Kris Maehren