University of Alaska

Southeast School of Education

Juneau  Ketchikan  Sitka Juneau Campus
Letter of Recommendation for Mariah Brashar
December 14, 2018

I am pleased to recommend Ms. Mariah Brashar for her K-8 teaching certificate. Mariah completed her
student teaching experience for the Elementary Master of Arts in Teaching Program, University of
Alaska Southeast, during the Fall Semester, 2018. Her assignment was a 4th grade classroom at Susitna
Elementary School in Anchorage, Alaska, under the supervision of host teacher Lindsey Huberty.
Mariah was responsible for planning, teaching and assessment for well over the 6 required weeks, and
she was able to teach in all content areas during this time. As her university supervisor, I visited
Mariah’s classroom weekly during the semester.

Mariah met all and exceeded some of the Alaska Beginning Teacher Expectations during this
experience. She will be able to share with you a professional portfolio that highlights these
accomplishments, including her ability to plan, teach and evaluate curriculum (including a standards
based unit), and her ability to use data to improve student performance (Teacher Work Sample).

Mariah quickly became familiar with the students and became a natural part of the classroom culture.
The class of 28 students presented a wide diversity of skills, abilities and ethnicities, providing a rich
tapestry for Mariah to hone her skills. During her student teaching times, Mariah explored hands on
and experiential learning with a focus on math and cultural geography. The projects that she assigned
students fell in line with the 4th grade curriculum, many of which were interesting and engaging.
Classroom management presented some expected challenges and Mariah rose to the challenge making
well considered decisions and adaptations based on her deepening understanding of her students.

Mariah is a hard worker and has a natural affinity for children as seen in her personal attention to
particular high-needs students, the effect of which was successful de-escalation of small crises. Mariah
is an excellent communicator, solicited feedback, and put our suggestions into action.

Mariah Brashar has completed a rigorous graduate teacher preparation program. She will make a
welcome and willing addition to any school faculty. I would be happy to offer further information if you
wish to contact me at (907) 244-7807 or eahartley@alaska.edu.

Sincerely,
Beth Hartley, Ph.D.

Beth Hartley, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Education
Student Teacher Supervisor/MAT Program

11120 Glacier Highway  Juneau, Alaska 99801-8671  (907) 796-6525; Tollfree 1-866-465-6424