Hi, my name is Tricia Rene, and I have been teaching kindergarten at North Baptist since 1996.  Born and raised in the town of Irondequoit, I continue to live there with my husband Andre.  I am a graduate of Roberts Wesleyan College with a degree in both elementary education and English literature.

I have actually had the opportunity to teach every elementary grade at one time or another, and while each grade has an area of interest to me, I have found the kindergarten classroom to be most unique. 

Kindergarten is a year of “firsts” -  first classroom, first school friends, first bus ride, first lunch box, first field trip and first library card.  And for most of the students it becomes the place where they first learn how to write, add and subtract numbers and even read books all by themselves!  I feel so privileged to be their first teacher and to be a part of all this excitement.  I know this year of school is so important in developing a love for school and learning, and I hope to provide the best environment to make it a positive experience. 

Another thing that is especially unique to the kindergartner is the way in which they handle the common happenings of their 5 year old life.  They can be absolutely thrilled over the simplest thing like turning on a light switch or holding the door to let the others pass through.  The ease in which they can forgive a classmate who has wronged them is unusual.  And it never ceases to amaze me how easily they trust.  It is through this lens that I am often reminded of Jesus’ words unless you become like one of these you cannot enter the Kingdom of God.”  I feel blessed to have this lesson before me each day.

Lastly, I would be leaving out a significant benefit if I didn’t mention the laughter the children provide me with each day as well.  Remember Bill Cosby’s show “Kids Say the Darndest Things.”  Well, it is so true.  The things kids say at this age keep me smiling and laughing long after they are gone.  My only regret is that I didn’t start to write them down twelve years ago.  I know… there is always this year.  Hey, ya never know.

When I am not in the classroom or preparing for a new day there, you could probably find me doing one of my other favorite things like cooking or reading a cookbook, gardening--I have a small flower garden I tend in the summer, walking--I do my best to get one in every day that the weather permits, reading a book--I especially enjoy a good memoir, or just spending time with my husband and our families.

I enjoy teaching the kids how to draw and paint!

Me and my husband Andre

This is what my arbor looks like in the spring