This month we are shining the spotlight on Wendy Hainey’s classroom! Mrs. Hainey is one of our wonderful special education classroom teachers. When asked why she became a teacher, Mrs. Hainey shared “I entered teaching because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of children who are diverse learners. Seeing a child’s language, knowledge and independence grow before your eyes is an incredible experience.” She says she can’t pick one favorite part of her school day, “There are small moments throughout the day that are joyful, but I think arrival is the best. I love to see the kids smile as they walk toward our class meeting spot. Sometimes I get a hug, a chance to share a book while we wait for everyone, or just a moment to connect individually with a child to start our day off on the right track.”
Each day, Mrs. Hainey’s class begins with engaging “table time” activities, giving the students a chance to practice their fine motor skills by practicing writing and making crafts. This morning, the students were busy crafting pet-themed projects using paper plates and construction paper. Following table time the students transition to their first circle time of the day, which is full of laughter, greetings, and learning opportunities. Mrs. Hainey guides the class in activities like greeting their classmates and counting how many friends are at school that day. It’s clear that circle time is an important part of the students’ routine, where connections are made and learning is centered on student growth, community, and communication.
Next comes “center time”, which is essentially “free play” time. During center time, the room is alive with creativity and exploration as the students choose from a variety of centers. This month, the classroom theme is “pets,” and the dramatic play area is filled with cute pet-themed props, including fish, birds, and dogs. Students enjoy immersing themselves in imaginative play as they care for their furry, scaly, and feathered friends.
A highlight of center time was watching the students embark on a scavenger hunt to find doghouses hidden around the classroom. A few students were so excited after finding dogs and matching them to the right doghouse. They couldn’t wait to share the news with teachers, rushing over to the easel and proudly showing off their discovery. The joy on their face was priceless. It was such a delight to watch the students fully engage with the hunt!
After center time the students go to “gross motor” time or recess. This time is a favorite for many of the students, as they get to ride bikes, go down slides, and run to their hearts content. Whether that is in the gym or outside at the park when the weather is nice. Following recess, it’s snack time, where students fuel up before heading into their second center time. The day wraps up with another circle time, where the students gather together for an interactive group activity and a heartfelt goodbye to their friends and teachers. It’s a moment to reflect on the day’s learning and prepare for the adventures that await tomorrow.
Mrs. Hainey’s classroom is filled with a sense of joy, exploration, and growth. Every day is an opportunity for students to learn new things, develop important skills, and build meaningful relationships that lay the foundation for their future growth.We are so grateful to Mrs. Hainey for letting us take a peek into her classroom this month and for all the love and dedication she pours into her students every single day!
