sR Dap SWE CO, 2 tons Rye Country Day School, Cedar Street, Rye, New York 10580-2034 « (914) 967-1417 + Fax (914) 967-1418 January 2016 ‘To Whom It May Concern: It is with great pleasure that I recommend Zoe Oppenheimer for a position in your school. Over the past two years, it has been a joy and privilege to watch Zoe grow professionally at Rye Country Day School. In her first year, Zoe was an assistant teacher in a Kindergarten classroom, and this year she is an assistant in our second grade program, supporting both second grade classrooms. ‘Zoe has been a wonderful addition to our school community. Despite living in NYC and taking the train to get to Westchester each day, Zoe is often one of the frst teachers to arrive. She comes in promptly every day and has been ur early morning greeter at the car line, as well as overseeing the morning waiting room and working at the front desk. Zoe approaches every task responsibly. She is always prepared, and can often be seen staying late when her schedule allows, to prep for the following day or to attend faculty meetings. Her enthusiasm, professionalism, and love of children are more than evident. In the second grade, Zoe's time is split between two classrooms and her organization and collaborative spirit allows this to happen seamlessly. In both Zoe's placements, she has worked with all students teaching whole group, small groups, in addition to the ‘many one-on-one sessions with specific students. Zoe's lessons ranged from language ars, to math, as well as social studies and character building. Zoe supports the lead teacher in all curriculum areas, at times taking the helm and delivering instruction with the lead teacher supporting her. When the lead teacher is out for the day, Zoe takes over and instruction continues. When I observe Zoe teaching, her lessons are structured, sequential, and creative. She is. sensitive to the individual needs of each student and she knows when to push and when to praise, Zoe has a firm, but zgentle manner, setting the bar high and always clearly stating expectations. Zoe's thirst for learning is evident each day as she inquires about certain students and their needs or learning style, oF about the curriculum as it relates to a student. Zoe took part in report card conferences, providing input to the teachers based on her anecdotal notes. Lunchtime can often find Zoe engaged in professional conversations with colleagues about new thoughts, ideas, or strategies that she has learned in graduate school. While working at RCDS for the past two years, Zoe is also attending Bank Street College of Education in the evening as she pursues a Master's Degree in Literacy. This is no easy task, but Zoe makes it look easy. She is known for her ready smile, and her can clo attitude. When her schedule allowed, Zoe participated in the Lower School's Responsive Classroom Committee, and took advantage of Professional Development opportunities such as Responsive Classroom training, SMART Board Workshops, as well as a Play workshop. During the month of June, our Lower School offers two- ‘week mini-camps. Zoe’s initiative and collaborative demeanor led her to offer a “Spy” theme camp, with another teacher, for twenty-two students from kindergarten through second grade. This was a huge hit. Zoe is a true professional; not only in her teaching, but also in the way she interacts with others — parents, students, and colleagues. Without hesitation, 1 would recommend Zoe for any teaching position. If you have further questions, please feel free to contact me. Sincerely Alva Walsks Sylvia Wats, Lower Schoo! Principal Rye Country Day School Rye, NY 10580 (14) 925-4860