The Chronicles of Kindergarten

Hello!

  Welcome to my website and thank you for stopping by. I wanted to share with you a few facts about myself and why I became a teacher. 

  I grew up in Allentown, Pennslyvania and I have been living in Hanover, PA going on 10 years. I graduated from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania in 2005. My degree is in Elementary Education with a concentration in Reading. I also received my ESL (English as a Second Language) certification from Millersville University in 2012. I am working on My Masters in Language and Literacy at Millersville University. 

   I am starting my 10th year in Kindergarten! WOW! I feel like I should have a party to mark this achievement! The job opportunity to work for Hanover Public School District brought me to Hanover in 2007, Prior to that I subbed and was an aide at a couple districts in my hometown. 

   I live with my husband, David, my little dog Bentley, our cat Hazel, and my mom also resides with us. She also brought her little cat named Teddy. Last year we moved my mom from Allentown to Hanover so that she could be closer and I would see her more. I sadly lost my dad to Pancreatic cancer in May 2009. We often visit New Jersey where David's family resides and we spend time with our two nieces, Zoey and Abby. I love being an aunt! I enjoy crafting in my newly set up craft room, making banners and other decorations for special occasions, scrapbooking, and I just started getting into chalk painting. I painted my dining room chairs this summer! I love decorating and making my home beautiful and homey.  I also love spending time with friends, helping at my church, and visiting historic places, like Gettysburg and DC. 

   I decided I was going to be a teacher when I was in 3rd grade. I knew from the time I was in 7th grade that I would attend Kutztown University for a teaching degree. I love spending my days with children. It is very tiring, but never boring! Even on the difficult days my students do something to make me laugh, smile, or remind me why I became a teacher. I often call them "my kids," not students, because we become so close during the school year. I have had the fortunate opportunity to remain close with some of my students' families and have built great relationships! I think that is one of my favorite things about teaching in a smaller district and town. I often feel famous when I go to Wal-Mart and other places in town. I often hear , "Mrs. Birchmire!" and receive a big hug. 

   I am excited to have you on this kindergarten journey with me and thank you for entrusting me with your most precious gift, your child. 

Smile,

 Mrs. Lauren Birchmire