Allow me to introduce myself. I am SaRenna McDonald-Resource Teacher at JSES. I have over 20 years as an experienced teacher.
Growing up, there was no doubt that I would work in education. I knew this because my favorite games as a child were playing school with cousins and the school librarian.

After graduating from Henry Ford High school as President of the Future Educators of America, I attended Wayne State University in my hometown of Detroit, MI, where I majored in Elementary Education. My first twelve years of teaching were in Miami-Dade County in Miami, Florida. Yes, I do miss those spectacular beaches, but teaching did afford me some amazing outcomes and lasting relationships. I still have close contact with some of my former students and principals. Just this year, July 2024, I witnessed my former second grade student being presented with her white coat as she officially became a physician's assistant. During my 12yr career in MDPS I excelled as an educator. My experience as a Reading Intervention Specialist, classroom teacher and Special Education Resource teacher helped me see so many of the obstacles that get in the way of students and their love for reading. I developed a passion for students needing extra support. That passion led me to attend Barry University, where I majored in Special Education and earned my Masters Degree in Education. Although I am not technically a student, I am always learning new ways to meet students where they are and help them increase their chances of having a successful academic career.  

Students supported by collaborative parent-teacher relationships also tend to have better overall views of education and themselves. This may be due to being better supported and welcomed in the classroom, as well as having a shared understanding of academic goals and progress. I encourage parents to ask questions, seek clarification, and share their observations about their child's learning journey. This ongoing dialogue enriches the parent-teacher partnership and ensures that both educators and parents remain aligned in their support of the student's growth. Remember, we have a common goal, which is to seek the best education for our children and prepare them to become productive citizens in this world that is eager for them to "Shine Stallion Shine".