Welcome to Our Classroom
Welcome to Grade 1/2!
We are thrilled to welcome you to our Grade 1/2 classroom at Henry Coaster Memorial School! Our classroom is a dynamic learning community of 10 wonderful students who come together each day to explore, grow, and celebrate learning in a culturally rich and supportive environment.
Our Teaching Team
Mr. Anthony is a new teacher from Windsor, Ontario. He enjoys teaching students and sharing stories in the classroom. He values building strong relationships with his students to better understand their strengths and needs. Mr. Anthony believes that every student is capable of success. He is excited to teach this year and hopes to create meaningful memories and learning experiences with his students.
Ms. Liza is a language teacher, author, and mentor who loves helping children learn, grow, and feel confident. She believes that every child has greatness inside them. Through the power of language, culture, and connection, she helps students discover their strengths and learn to believe in themselves. Ms. Liza is committed to creating a safe and caring classroom where every child feels seen, valued, and proud of who they are.
Together, we create a nurturing classroom environment where every child feels valued, heard, and empowered to reach their full potential. We work collaboratively to differentiate instruction and meet the unique needs of each learner in our small, close-knit class.
Our Classroom Philosophy
In our Grade 1/2 classroom, we believe that every child has gifts and the ability to grow. Our goal is to help each child become confident, kind, and proud of who they are.
We use culture-based and land-based learning in all subjects. This means we connect lessons to the land, the community, and students’ traditions. Children learn best when they see themselves in what they are learning.
We believe that when children feel safe, respected, and connected, they enjoy learning and try their best. Through stories, outdoor learning, and hands-on activities, students build strong skills while learning to care for themselves, others, and the community.
Our classroom is a place where:
- Everyone belongs and is heard
- Everyone is accepted and respected
- Everyone is safe and welcome
- Every child can learn
By learning about who they are and where they come from, children grow into strong helpers and future leaders in the community.
Together, we learn and grow.
Indigenous Language and Culture with Ms. Brenda
One of the most special and important parts of our program is our Indigenous language instruction with our wonderful Native language teacher, Ms. Brenda. Through regular language lessons, our students have the precious opportunity to learn, speak, and connect with our traditional language.
Ms. Brenda brings our language to life in ways that are engaging, meaningful, and age-appropriate for our young learners. Students learn vocabulary related to their daily lives, practice greetings and conversational phrases, hear and tell traditional stories in our language, sing songs and participate in cultural activities, and develop pride in their linguistic and cultural heritage.
This language learning goes beyond just words - it connects our students to their identity, their ancestors, and their community. We integrate language and cultural teachings throughout our day, helping students see their language as a living, vibrant part of their lives.
Our Learning Environment
With 10 students in our class, we are able to provide individualized attention and create a true family atmosphere. Our small class size allows us to really get to know each child as a unique learner, celebrate their individual strengths, provide targeted support where needed, and build strong, meaningful relationships with every student and family.
Each day in our classroom is filled with exploration, discovery, collaboration, and joy. We balance structured learning with play-based activities, quiet individual work, and academic skills with social-emotional development. Our students learn to be kind, respectful, and responsible community members while building the academic foundations they need for future success.
How Families Can Support Learning
Families play an essential role in supporting children’s learning and development. Here are some ways you can help your child succeed:
Reading Together - Read books sent home together regularly. Even 10-15 minutes each day makes a big difference in building literacy skills and a love of reading.
Using Online Learning Tools - Encourage your child to use Lexia and Symphony Math at home. These programs provide personalized practice that supports classroom learning.
Talking About Learning - Ask your child about what they learned at school. Celebrate their effort and progress, not just their results.
Practicing Oji-Cree - Use Oji-Cree words and phrases at home when possible. Sharing family stories, traditions, and experiences helps children feel proud of who they are.
Staying Connected - Reach out with questions or concerns. We are here to support you and your child!
Thank you for entrusting us with your children. We look forward to partnering with you in their education!
Miigwech! Mr. Anthony & Ms. Liza
