Judy Graham

A love for a good story is something that I hope to achieve through my Literature classes for Grades 5—8.  My classroom atmosphere is one built on a respect for my students with all of their various talents and needs.  We cover all of the concepts and skills that are required to scaffold learning to become an engaged reader.  This is done with the Elements of Literature textbook, our novel units, and nonfiction articles from ReadWorks, Scholastic News, and the Scope Language  Arts magazine.

The text provides us with wonderful fiction and nonfiction from renowned writers.  Each class also completes two novel units, using award-winning, age appropriate novels such as The Night Diary and The Red Badge of Courage. We read together in class, stopping to discuss so that many perspectives are gained and a deeper understanding of the story results.

I also teach 7th Grade Global Studies where we explore the first half of American History, along with Tennessee History.  We use the American Nation text and workbook, along with videos and other resources.  Again, we read together so that questions can be asked and answered, and connections made for the people and places we study.
 

I am a proud alumna of Saint Ann School, Saint Bernard Academy High School, and Tennessee Tech University.  I added a Librarian’s certification through classes at Trevecca. I have worked at Saint Ann School in many capacities through the years. I’ve served as First Grade Teacher, Librarian, Assistant Principal, and now Eighth Grade Homeroom, Literature and GS Teacher.

I have two sons who are alums of Saint Ann as well. Michael is married to Heidi, and they have given me two beautiful grandchildren, Ellie and Carter. Max is my younger son, and he is known as Coach Max as he has volunteered as the Varsity Basketball Coach for the boys for many years.  He and his wife, Katie, have blessed me with my third grandchild, Emma Kate. I am a lifelong parishioner of Saint Ann Church; this is truly a home-away-from-home for me.