My name is Donica Crocker, and I am the first grade teacher at Taylor’s Crossing Public Charter School. I am thrilled to be a part of this incredible learning environment and excited about the experiences we are going to have throughout the coming school year.

I earned my Associate of Arts and Sciences degree from Ricks College and my Bachelor of Arts in elementary education from Idaho State University, along with endorsements in both reading and music. In the six years that I have been teaching, I have worked in both traditional public schools and another public charter school. I have taught students in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades and worked with kindergarten students in transition. Teaching is, and always has been, a part of me. From a very young age, I dreamed of becoming a teacher, and I have found great joy, as well as challenges, in the fulfillment of that dream. It continues to be an energizing and motivating force in my life.

Besides teaching, I also enjoy spending time with my wonderful family, going hiking, camping, and exploring. I enjoy cooking, singing, playing the piano, reading, and doing embroidery and other crafts. I like to go horseback riding, collect rocks, watch the sunset, or gaze at the stars at night. I am the oldest of six children. I have two brothers and three sisters, one of which is my identical twin. I love animals and have several pets. My favorite season is autumn and my favorite color is blue.

Learning is a celebration, and a love of learning is a precious gift. In my classroom, my goal is to make sure that each student has the opportunity to become involved in that celebration and to experience the joy that comes from learning in a challenging, safe, and positive environment. The culture established through the Harbor method helps to make this possible. Each child comes to school with their own unique strengths, needs, and hopes for the future; this is something I value and appreciate. As they learn and grow throughout the year, my hope is that they will come to recognize both individually and as a group, that they are special, have great worth, are highly capable, and that they can make a positive difference in the world. I am looking forward to meeting each of my students and excited to begin our learning adventures together!