Media Creation Tool Windows 11 Le Crabe
Matt Dreher
MY JOY
I chose albums because I love music. I credit my parents with exposing me to several genres of music as a child, from rock and jazz to reggae and classic R&B. My sons can attest that I frequently quiz them on the drive to Crane to make sure they recognize some of my favorite artists!
FAVORITE SPOT ON CAMPUS
I love the Oak Tree Quad. It is a beautiful and inviting space that seems to bring people together effortlessly.
FAVORITE CRANE TRADITION
My favorite Crane tradition is Assembly. I love that our community comes together every day to highlight or celebrate a member/members of the community. Additionally, our students gain invaluable experience in public speaking and gain confidence that will serve them far beyond their Crane experiences.
BEST TEACHING MOMENT
To prepare for our annual fifth-grade trip to Boston, students take on an identity from the American Revolution, as they learn about key historical events leading up to the war. By stepping into history themselves and investigating primary-source documents, my students gain a deeper understanding of how these events affected the daily lives of people living during that time period.
Third Grade Teacher
lam...@craneschool.org
(805) 969-7732 x320
EDUCATION
BA History, University of California, Berkeley; MEd, MST Credential, University of California Santa Barbara
JOINED CRANE
2020
MY JOY
I love getting out on the ocean. Whether it is sailing or swimming in the ocean, the range of conditions and swell always keeps it interesting. There is something so peaceful when you get into a rhythm with the movement of the water.
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CRANE
The Crane community looks out for each other and supports all students in finding excitement and joy in learning. Teachers are constantly collaborating across subjects allowing students to make multiple connections to their learning. There are also so many opportunities for students to dive deeper into their interests, from math clubs and Friday spotlights, to Spring Study Week. Crane offers multiple avenues for students to get involved and excited about their learning.
FAVORITE SPOT ON CAMPUS
I love the Oak Tree Quad when the school all gathers for lunches on Mondays and Fridays. I love seeing all the students mingling across the different grades and the teachers connecting over food.
BOOK RECOMMENDATION FOR MY STUDENTS:
Pax by Sarah Pennypacker
BEST TEACHING MOMENT
While teaching remotely in the spring of 2020, I managed to still organize the seventh grade quinceaera. Despite not being on campus together, the class was able to celebrate each other over the computer screen. It was so wonderful to bring the community together to dance, listen to music, and celebrate every students' coming of age while we were all separated at home. It was amazing how the Crane community pulled together and still held their traditions for all the students.
My Joy
These little green figures are called Smiski. This is just a small part of my collection, which started in 2018 and has continued to grow! When my sister is in town she likes to find new places to hide them around my room. Finding them in their new hiding spots always brings me joy.
JOINED CRANE
2022
MY JOY
I love to travel, read, play games, and spend time with my husband and two sons. I love a good game of cards, Dominos or Clue with my friends and family. I own many classic games that I grew up playing and I am always adding to our game collection.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPOT ON CAMPUS?
Sitting under the redwood tree is a magical space to read a book and soak in nature.
WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO TEACH AT CRANE?
Crane School's mission of providing an experiential education alongside academic challenge and creative expression aligns deeply with my beliefs. As an educator, I believe that all children learn best by doing.
MY MOTTO
"The path from dreams to success does exist. May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get on to it, and the perseverance to follow it." Kalpana Chawla
MY JOY
The mask represents "the character." As actors, we explore and delve into other characters; we wear many masks as we transform ourselves. As we learn about others, we develop empathy and learn more about ourselves through the process.
MY FAVORITE CRANE TRADITION
Theater and public speaking are a critical and respected component of a Crane education. Everyone in the class participates in their class production in kindergarten, second, and fourth grades. Everyone does an eighth-grade public speech before the whole Crane community. And, kids build new friendships and discover new talents through the Performing Arts Program.
WHY I CAME TO CRANE
My experience as a student at Crane was phenomenal. From the expertise of the teachers to the incredible opportunity of trip weeks to the performing arts for all students: I loved Crane then and I love Crane now!
BEST TEACHING MOMENT
Every year in fourth grade we read Roald Dahl's book, The Witches. The children and I both enjoy it when I assume the role of the Grand High Witch. Reading aloud in the voice of the witch sends delightful shivers down the spines of the students.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
I received the Dorothy Waugh Summer Grant to expand my knowledge of the California Gold Rush. I journeyed to northern California to personally visit gold mines, attend workshops, and gather historical regalia to bring back to class. This experience allowed me to make the fourth grade study of the Gold Rush more dynamic and interactive for our students.
Education
BA Anthropology/International Development, Wheaton College; MS Education, CUNY; MA English, Creative Writing Emphasis, Fordham University; MA Clinical Psychology, Chicago School of Professional Psychology); Licensed Family Therapist and Educational Therapist
My Joy
For me, experiential learning comes best through outdoor adventures, both close and abroad. My husband and I love to traverse mountains together all around the world. Travel brings us up close with the unknown, reminds us how connected we all are, and balances our priorities and perspectives. Nature is the ultimate reset and teacher. So far, we've hit 43 countries together and hope to explore many more.
My Favorite Crane Tradition
Friday Spotlights are a true highlight for me. It's amazing to watch students share their gifts with the larger community. From song to dance to performance arts, the talents our students possess (and have the courage to showcase) is truly incredible.
My Favorite Book to Recommend to Students
I like to recommend the children's book Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty. It's a story of a little girl who creates all sorts of inventions, but hides them under her bed lest they seem silly to others. Throughout the story, Rosie learns how to bring her creations into the light. She also discovers that making mistakes is an important part of the creative process. I love this story because finding one's voice and courageously failing forward are skills that I love to champion with my students.
MY JOY
I treasure American architecture of the early to mid 1900's, its historic preservation, and period decor. Any kind of design surrounding the home keeps me challenged: landscapes, textures, lighting, colors - I love it all.
MY FAVORITE CRANE TRADITION
Friday Spotlights. It's rare to have regular, scheduled times for kids to showcase their talents beyond the classroom setting. Witnessing the courage and growth of the children via the stage over the years is something to cherish.
WHY I CAME TO CRANE
Crane's commitment to experiential learning -- children learning by doing -- is ingrained in the methods of our teachers. It's fundamental to constructivism and is a delight to witness happening around the campus every day. One of the things I love most about teaching is that it requires constantly tapping into your creativity. Crane is a place where innovative thinking is paramount.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPOT ON CAMPUS?
The different playgrounds on campus are my favorite spots because there is nothing better than seeing children playing with their friends!
MY MOTTO
Be your true self and have fun!
EDUCATION
BS Child Development, University of California Davis; MA Educational Administration, University of California Santa Barbara; CA Multiple Subject Credential; CA Preliminary Administrative Services Credential
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CRANE
Spring Study Week is incredibly magical. Everyone comes together around one theme, transforming each learning space and creating an unforgettable week. This is one of many experiences at Crane that generates a strong sense of community. I am continually impressed by the creativity of my colleagues and our administration team.
MY JOY
Yoga and meditation have been a big part of my life for many years now, and waking up early every morning to practice both keeps me energized and allows me to engage with life as it comes!
EDUCATION
BA Psychology, University of California Davis; MST Credential, California State University Fullerton; MLS, San Jose State University; Library Teaching Credential, San Jose State University
BEST TEACHING MOMENT
Many of my favorite teaching moments occur on the sixth-grade trip to Catalina Island, when I see our students overcome their fears and push themselves out of their comfort zones. We go rock climbing, try the high-ropes course, and even go snorkeling at night.
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CRANE
Being a library teacher is the perfect profession for me. I get to work with students, Staffulty, and parents. I get to teach in spheres relating to books and research, which are my favorite things! I am a person who LOVES her job, and I want to continue helping the Crane community for decades to come.