(OR. CHRISTINA M. KISHIMOTO 168 es ‘SUPERINTENDENT (GOVERNOR STATE OF HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION EWA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 51-1280 RENTON ROAD EWA, HAWAI 95706 PONE: (88) 307.8200 FAX (606) 681-8208 March 29, 2021 ‘To Whom It May Concern: It was an honor to have served as mentor teacher for Kaylen Samson, and I highly recommend her employment as an Elementary School Teacher for the State of Hawaii, Department of Education. Kaylen was assigned to spend a semester with me in our Kindergarten classroom. This, in my opinion, is one of the more difficult years in a student’s educational career because it introduces them to formal education, routines, rule following, and literally their A-Z’s. What made it even more challenging was that Kaylen started her student teaching at the beginning of the school year, arguably the toughest time of year for Kindergarteners, as many of our incoming students are experiencing a learning environment for the first time. Kaylen demonstrated a natural instinct, inherent in great teachers, and immersed herself in our classroom culture. She showed no hesitation, was poised beyond her years, and independently took a hands-on approach in assisting our young leamers. With the ease of a veteran teacher, Kaylen was able 10 build necessary relationships, establish roles within the classroom, and explain and enforce all the rules that students must master in their first year of school. In addition to her natural talent for teaching, Kaylen also demonstrated her professionalism by coming to school early, fully prepped, with well- planned lessons designed to follow Hawaii State Standards. Kaylen Samson has a natural gift for the teaching profession. She demonstrates a genuine desire to help children and an innate ability to respond appropriately when faced with teachable moments. It is with great pleasure that I recommend Kaylen Samson for employment, and I am confident that any school \will greatly benefit for years to come if lucky enough to gain her as a teacher. If further information is required, please do not hesitate to contact me via phone or email provided below. Thank you for your consideration in this matter. Sincerely, Kris Tanioka Ewa Elementary School (808) 307-8200 kris.tanioka@k12.hi.us