a LOMARENA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 25100 Earhart Rocd * Logune Hills, California 92653 + (949) 581-1370 May 1,2016 To Whom It May Concern: Since the beginning of April, Kathleen Marusich has been working to complete her student teaching hours for UCI's teaching program in my kindergarten classroom. During this time, she has already observed, taught, and planned in the classroom environment and hi displayed many qualities that professional educators possess. I clearly can see that education will be a career that Kat would and will excel at. interacting with all the children and through this enthusiasm shows es to work with children. When working with my students, she demonstrates Patience and care. Since she first stepped foot in our classroom, it was as if there were two teachers teaching 30 students. In the beginning she took great initiative, often taking a small group and working on center activities and other content activities. If she is not working with a small group or observing a lesson, she takes initiative and walks around the classroom, monitoring the children in their assignments. As she has increased in her control of the classroom, she has planned meaningful lessons and met not only district and state requirements, bbut modified lessons to fit the needs of the students. She is demonstrating such confidence in the classroom environment. Kat is open to learning more information about the profession. She knows and desires education to be her career and therefore she is curious about all the nuances, She is always open to hearing pointers and asks great instructional questions. She is versed in the jargon of elementary instruction and understands the trajectory of education today. She clearly is interested in her teaching and wants to make sure she would be well prepared. Professionally and personally, Kat possesses many unique characteristics that she constantly displays during her time here at Lomarena. Her cheerful personality is warm and inviting for anyone. She is outgoing and strives to be the best she can be at all times. She is not afraid of challenges and constantly takes initiative, something that all good teachers need to possess. She is open minded about trying anything and has demonstrated that she works well with all ages. She works well with other staff members as well as her own cohort peers and plans with our grade level team very effectively. Because of her charisma, it seems everyone knows who she is. Kathleen Marusich would be a worthy and positive addition to any district staff. Sincerely, Ate A , Michele Ann Dignan Lomarena Elementary-Kindergarten Teacher "Che cfooe Ua “Thy a’