Hello, My name is Jane Kotinek. I live in Texas, but I was born and raised in a small town in Wisconsin. I have been teaching for 23 years. I am certified to teach ESL, Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, and Science. I love teaching as much today as I did when I started. I enjoy it because each day brings something a little different. I currently work at an alternative school. That means I teach different students almost every day. Nothing brings me more happiness than when a student has that "ah-ha" moment; their face lights up and they say, "Oh! I understand!" I pride myself on creating a fun, safe, and nurturing classroom where students are relaxed and comfortable. Students enter my classroom wanting to learn. Two school districts have honored me with Teacher of the Year achievements. I received the honor after teaching two different grades (6th and 8th) and subject areas. I have not only taught in public schools. I have also taught online privately to students around the world. It was an exceptional experience. I am the department chair for elementary and intermediate grades at my school. I was also the English department chair at a previous district, as well as being on the curriculum writing team and vertical writing team. Teaching runs in my veins.