Teacher of the Month: April- Sarah Vogeli, Carmichael Elementary School

Name: Sarah Vogeli

Occupation: First grade teacher at

Years At School: 6

Previous Schools Taught: Creekside Elementary, (now closed)

Education:  B.A. in History; California State University, Sacramento; M.A. in Teaching with a Reading Certificate; National University; Multiple Subject teaching credential with a CLAD authorization
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Personal:  Married 35 years to husband Patrick. Children: Ryan, 34 (married with 2 children), Kevin, 32, and Megan, 28.

What she likes about teaching: "Seeing the spark and excitement in my students when they 'get it'; figuring out a word by themselves, making a personal connection with an influential person like , having  “aha” moments during science investigations; begging to read a special book."

What she does to make learning fun: "I believe students should be actively engaged in and own their learning.  Singing and poetry is an integral part of our language arts curriculum.  Hands on science is a great vehicle for learning both science concepts and notebooking skills.  My class planned and performed at a “High Tea” for their families on Valentine’s Day; we are working on a musical about Aesop’s fables; we always have a science investigation going."

What influenced her to become a teacher?  "Looking back, certain teachers had enormous influence for good in my life.  That inspires me to try to do the same for my students."

Community Involvement: Helping organize science night, "my students had a project writing to U.S. Navy sailors chasing pirates off the coast of Somalia,  collecting food in classrooms for food closets", active in church activities. 

What she likes most about Carmichael: "I love the neighborhood feeling.  Running into friends at the grocery store or at coffee.  Seeing children of friends come back and begin raising their families here.  It’s wonderful to have those connections."

What others say about her:

“Mrs. Vogeli puts an enormous amount of her time and effort to make sure the students are learning while having fun.  She has a lot of hands on instruction in all subject areas especially science.  Her passion is evident in her students as they are learning new concepts.” –Virginia Martin, parent

“Mrs. Vogeli is an innovative leader on campus.  She always puts children’s needs first in all her hard work. She leads her class and our campus with optimism and a smile,” Holly Cybulski, instructional coach

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Submitted by Brandei Castro, principal, Carmichael Elementary