Ms. Carissa teaches 1st grade at Four Seasons A+ Elementary School. She has been teaching since 2004 and, as well as teaching here in Minnesota, she has taught in Nevada, Mexico, Colombia, and Oman. Ms. Carissa earned her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Minnesota State University, Mankato with an emphasis in pre-primary as well. She also has a Master of Science degree from the State University of New York in Multi-disciplinary Studies. Ms. Carissa has a TESOL certification, and many hours of professional development that has been geared towards continuing being up-to-date in what's needed in the world to be successful in teaching this generation of learners and helping them prepare for their future. 

As a teacher, she looks forward to getting to know her students and how best to teach each one, based on who they are and what their needs may be. She believes in providing as much routine as possible in a nurturing and safe environment. As we learn and grow together, it's amazing to see the connections the students make to their learning and the independence they can take on.

We have a large emphasis on community building at our grade level and we strive to make connections with our students so that they feel happy, safe, and secure in their environment. We have staff that goes above and beyond to try to make each day a good one for every child in the building. Along with creating a strong community, we strive to create clear and supportive communication with the school families. We want to work together as a team to help their child achieve their full potential. 

To achieve the best possible communication between classroom and families, you will receive contact information when your child starts school. Some ways we have stayed in contact have been through calls, emails, and text. 

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little more about the teachers here at Four Seasons A+ Elementary!