My name is Ms. Criste Cottrell. I love teaching because every day, students also teach me new things. It's a job that allows me to be a creative and unique individual, but also challenges me to find ways to inspire that same skill in others.
I am a Utah native and have lived here my entire life. I have two cats who I adore named WitNae Nae and Kit Harington of Castle Black. I am a big supporter of the University of Utah, as I obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree in English from there in 2006. My plan was to write for a magazine or newspaper, but as was the case while going to school, jobs in the field of education kept attracting me. So... to make a long story short, plans changed and I ended up becoming a teacher. I have worked as a substitute, teaching assistant, paraprofessional and then the first year I finally got an official teaching gig, I taught occupational social and reading courses to high school students. After that, I had the privilege to change to the middle school setting, teaching mostly English language arts. I've had the opportunity to work with all different age groups, all the way from kindergarten to post-high school, but I've found I really fit the best in middle school. :)
One of the things I love to do while teaching is make things hands on and artistic. I love incorporating the arts, including music, lots of colors and know that sensory is super beneficial and important in the writing, reading and learning process. I am by no means an art teacher, but I still love to draw funny little pictures, play music while writing and fidget with lots of different objects to help me think while learning. I also believe that like art, every student is entitled to create something unique and individual to him or her. That being said, assignments can be flexible and modified for the individual. Just ask if you have an alteration or an idea. I will too. :)
I love road trips and traveling. This past year, I've been to Louisiana and Arizona and have gone on short driving road trips through Wyoming and Nevada as well.
I'm thrilled to learn about all of you as the year progresses. Don't be afraid to open up, laugh, and get embarrassed. It's all part of the storytelling fun!