Dear Parents,

Welcome to Kindergarten at Maxwell Elementary! It is a privilege to teach your child and to receive you, your child, and your family into my classroom and my life!

I would also like to take this opportunity to share with you a bit about myself and my philosophy as a Kindergarten teacher. My name is Deborah Hodges Burley and I am a native of Wrens, GA. I have lived in Thomson for the past 18 years and will begin my 27^th year (Wow! that long already…J) of teaching this year. Maxwell Elementary is the only school where I have ever worked and Kindergarten is the only grade that I have ever taught! Still, I would not dare say that I know everything there is to know about teaching Kindergarten. I am a life long learner and want my students to become the same as well.

I am a graduate of the University of Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, a graduate of Augusta State University with a Master’s degree in Elementary Education, and a graduate of Lincoln Memorial University with an Educational Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction. I am also certified as a Teacher Support Specialist. My hobbies include reading, flower gardening, reading, shopping, traveling, reading, cooking (when I want to), surfing the Internet, reading, and interior design.

I have been fortunate to have received the following honors:

* J. A. Maxwell Elementary School Teacher of the Year in 2000

* McDuffie Co. Board of Commissioners Leaders of Tomorrow Recipient, 2002

*Recognized for Educational Excellence in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, 2002, 2004, 2006

I am a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International (an honor society of women educators) and the Professional Association of Georgia Educators. I am also a member of the Spring Bethel A.M.E. Church in Louisville where I serve on the Board of Stewards.

These are my beliefs for teaching young children:

*I believe that children deserve love.

*I believe that every child is talented and capable of learning.

*I believe that children need encouragement, consistency, clear expectations, and healthy boundaries.

*I believe that children should be provided with a comfortable and safe environment.

*I believe that learning should be interactive, imaginative, and FUN!

I do set high expectations in my classroom. Be assured that I will do my best to make this school year an enjoyable time for your child filled with lots of learning both academically and socially. I will guide and encourage your child as he or she gains a love of learning, self-confidence, and the academic skills that form a foundation for continued success.

I strongly believe in establishing and maintaining good communication. You may contact me at 706-986-4800, e-mail burleyd@mcduffie.k12.ga.us, or send a note. Updates and classroom information will be added to our classroom website throughout the school year.

My paraprofessional is Mrs. Lisa Rushton who is studying to become a teacher at Augusta State University. We welcome Erin Rogers who will be our apprentice teacher from Augusta State. We all look forward to a fantastic school year!                                       

                                                                     With great expectations,

                                                     Deborah