My name is Hannah Elminowski and I am the Social Studies teacher for grades 6-8 at Notre Dame Academy. I started working here three years ago as the Title 1 Math teacher. However, I moved to the 5th grade the following year and taught there for two years. I graduated from Niagara University with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Childhood Education. I also have a Master’s degree in Special Education from the same university. I always enjoy working with children and learning new things with them every day.

In the classroom, I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and friendly environment. I believe all students should feel comfortable respectfully sharing their thoughts, opinions, and beliefs on various topics we learn throughout the year. Each day, I work to develop rapport with students and get to know them better. This helps me understand their values, culture, and learning styles. By doing this, I can implement ideas and plan activities that are meaningful to them. During this school year, we will be working with the myWorld Saavas Social Studies curriculum learning about Ancient Civilizations, World History, and U.S. History. Students will use vocabulary found in the text, active journals, and real world texts/speeches/documents to enhance their knowledge in Social Studies.

When I am not teaching, I love to explore new places and cultures. Last summer, I visited the Chichen Itza in Mexico and learned about the ancient Maya civilization. I also enjoy seeing live music whenever I can. In addition, I like relaxing and watching a good movie on the couch with my pet bunny, Finn. I am very much looking forward to the 2023-2024 school year at Notre Dame Academy and helping each of my students become historians!