Teacher Bio

First a little bit about me, my name is Melody Smith,  I am originally from a small town in North Dakota.  I graduated from Valley City State University with my degree in elementary education. This is my 19th year of teaching, and my fifth year teaching ELA, at Laveen Elementary.

We welcome you to our 3rd grade family.  I, Mrs. Smith will be your child’s ELA teacher, Ms. Malone will be teaching Math, Mrs. Lorona is the Science teacher, and Mr. Ramirez will be your student’s Social Studies teacher. We have an open door policy. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns or questions throughout the school year.

We are here to help your child grow not only academically, but also socially and emotionally.  We are also excited to share that we will continue to focus on mindfulness and our Second Step program to help build your child’s confidence and leadership skills!  Second Step teaches skills that strengthen your child’s ability to learn, have empathy, manage emotions, and solve problems.  

We will also be using our  school wide parent/student/teacher communication platform PBIS Rewards this year as one of many forms to communicate not only with you, but also your child. 

Please be advised that your student will have the opportunity to complete “Extra Practice Work” in all academic areas, which they can earn Hawk Coins once completed and turned in.  I will require one weekly ELA reading and writing assignment, that will be given each Friday, as part of their ELA effort grade.  

We look forward to having a wonderful year working with you and your child.

Thank you!

Mrs. Smith, Ms. Malone, Mr. Ramirez, & Mrs. Lorona