Enthusiastic Readers

This year New Boston ISD welcomed veteran fifth grade teacher Darlene Greenlee to Crestview Elementary School to join a selective group of other “innovative, top notch teachers” on campus. “Although Mrs. Greenlee joined Crestview only this year,” commented her principal, Melissa Reid, “she is already making big gains in her classroom. She provides the kind of education for our kids that our administrators, teachers, parents, and community members are really excited about.”

Mrs. Greenlee’s primary focus is to instill an enthusiasm for reading in her students, which she admits can be a difficult task when dealing with fifth graders. She does so by building relationships with her students to promote an atmosphere in which they are empowered to tackle challenges while also having fun. Mrs. Greenlee knows the adversity many of her students face and she helps them march forward through books – particularly by reading picture books. "Picture books provide opportunities for teaching higher level skills and engaging experiences for my students,” says Greenlee. “My favorite author is Eve Bunting. Bunting tackles issues that, unfortunately, many of our children face today. From homelessness in ‘Fly Away Home’ to loss in ‘The Memory String,’ my students know that when I pull out an Eve Bunting book, it’s going to be great!"

“To me, teaching reading is the most influential and rewarding profession there is,” Greenlee continues. “Words are powerful! Words are timeless! Teaching children not only to read, but also to analyze, connect and communicate are skills that will last them a lifetime. To have a positive impact on someone for a lifetime is a nearly indescribable feeling.” #IAmTXEd New Boston ISD