Educator of the Month

EDUCATOR OF THE MONTH This month two educators are being highlighted on this site:
Tania Gerlack is a preschool disabilities teacher in Highland Park, New Jersey. Her classroom has a thematic approach with units lasting 1- 3 weeks. Students with disabilities were integrated into this district's Pre-K program two years ago.
Tania spent two weeks on the Rainforest Theme. She provided many opportunities for the children to learn, expand, extend, and construct their knowledge about the rainforest with her guidance and support. Tania's classroom is child-focused, fun, and full of natural, authentic learning for all.

Jamie Palka (top) recently completed her student teaching with Tania Gerlack in Highland Park. She is graduating from Montclair State University with her Master's Degree in Teaching and a certification in Teacher of the Handicapped.
During her student teaching experience, Jaimie discovered her joy and passion in teaching young children. She leaned how to infuse goals for young children with disabilities in naturally occurring, child-focused activities. The Rainforest Unit provided the backdrop for Jaimie to learn the critical role of facilitator and observer and how children need to construct their own knowledge. She also discovered the fun in creating an authentic environment where children are invested in learning.