I grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania, a city about four hours northeast of Columbus, Ohio.  After graduating with a B.A. in English  from Penn State,  I earned a Master of Arts degree in English Education from Ohio State University.  While earning my M.A., I interned as a ninth grade English teacher at an inner-city Columbus public school.                                          

       That summer, I met my husband, Richard, while working in a bookstore. A year after we were married, we had our first son.  Here is his website:  CLICK HERE.  After that, we moved to Los Angeles, CA where I taught fifth grade.  

         While in L.A., I had the opportunity to work during the summer at Sylvan Learning Center in Beverly Hills, CA.  Can you believe that at that center, I actually tutored famous stars' sons/daughters, including Jim Carrey's daughter and L.L. Cool J's son!!

           Needless to say, after having our fill of fame and glamour   we moved back to good ol' Columbus, Ohio to continue building our family.  Our second son was born in 2002.     Here is his website:  CLICK HERE.

       

            Some of my best times are spent with my family. We enjoy going to the park, the movies, the library, the pool, and, of course, playing with Gracie, our dog.     We attend New Song Community Church, where I am involved in a Scrapbooking Bible Study.    

             This will be my tenth year of teaching.  Recently, one of the highlights of my career was earning National Board Certification.  Videotaping and reflecting on my teaching equipped me with fresh ideas and greater confidence in maintaining an intellectually stimulating and smoothly run classroom.   Soon I am planning to add a new section to my website with advice and links for teachers in the midst of the National Board Certification process. Bookmark my website and check back, particularly if you are pursuing Adolescent English/Language Arts certification.  Here is a general link to the NBPTS website.  

            This year, I am excited to be teaching seventh grade English at Adams Middle School. Middle schoolers are so enjoyable to teach! My passion is encouraging them to strive for excellence in all that they do, knowing that they can make a huge impact on our society. Students continually amaze me when they use their creativity and intelligence to the best of their ability.  I am looking forward to a fun-filled year of growth.

           

            See you at school!                         

           

            Mrs. Dennis            

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