We’re thrilled to launch #ThankfulThursdays, a campaign from Windsor Public Schools' Instructional Services dedicated to recognizing the incredible staff who embody and bring to life the principles of our Instructional Core Wheel. Each week, we’ll highlight two staff members who demonstrate commitment to our mission of developing the genius in every child. For our inaugural post, we’re proud to feature Mr. Kenneth Estelle, a 3rd-grade teacher at John F. Kennedy School, and Mr. Robert Grimes, a 5th-grade STEM teacher at Clover Street School.
Kenneth Estelle: Building Connections That Transform Lives
In Mr. Estelle's 3rd-grade classroom at John F. Kennedy School, connection is at the heart of everything he does. He exemplifies the power of meaningful relationships, creating an environment where each student feels truly seen, heard, and valued from the moment they step inside. Understanding that each child brings unique strengths, interests, and challenges, Mr. Estelle takes time to learn what makes each student tick, using this knowledge to tailor his approach to learning.
More than academics, Mr. Estelle nurtures confidence, encourages curiosity, and shows students their potential. His students know that he believes in them, which empowers them to believe in themselves. Mr. Estelle's dedication goes far beyond the classroom walls, leaving a lasting impact that his students will carry with them throughout their lives.
Robert Grimes: Leading the Way in Innovation and Collaboration
As a 5th-grade STEM teacher at Clover Street School, Mr. Grimes is known for his innovative thinking and dedication to meeting the academic and social-emotional needs of his students. This school year, he embraced the Building Thinking Classrooms approach, a strategy focused on promoting collaborative, critical-thinking tasks. Taking it upon himself to observe this approach in action, Mr. Grimes visited middle and high school classrooms to see collaborative learning in practice. He then redesigned his own classroom, adding materials and adjusting his space to become a “lab classroom” where fellow STEM teachers could observe and learn.
In his role as the 5th-grade PLC (Professional Learning Community) leader, Mr. Grimes fosters a collaborative culture among his colleagues. He leads data discussions, sets goals, and guides his team in implementing best instructional practices that align with our Instructional Core Wheel. Mr. Grimes’ dedication to professional growth and teamwork helps create a thriving learning environment where students and teachers alike are encouraged to think creatively and critically.
Each #ThankfulThursday, we celebrate educators like Mr. Estelle and Mr. Grimes, who not only bring the Instructional Core Wheel to life but also inspire the entire Windsor community. Stay tuned as we continue to share stories of gratitude for the incredible staff shaping the future of Windsor Public Schools!
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