“Thank you for providing a program that understands the development of children in all phases, where their love of learning is well nurtured!” – Debra Swaiser
Teacher/Child Ratio: 1:16
Maximum Class Size: 16
Ages of Children: 5-8 years
Personal Background:
Josh has a Bachelor of Arts (EWU) in Elementary Education, and an Associates of Science in Human Anatomy and Physiology. Josh has been working in the Mead District, as well as substituting PreKin-8th Grade in the Central and East Valley School Districts for 2 years. Josh’s student teaching and practicum was a full year with 1st Graders at Fernan STEM Academy in Coeur d’Alene.
Josh is a Retired Senior chief Warrant Officer in the United States Army. Josh and his family returned to Spokane and former stomping grounds of Mead High School and Cheney Schools, after living for 21 years at Fort Bragg and Fort Campbell. Josh instructed more than 3000 soldiers in procedures required for conducting airborne and aerial delivery operations. He also commanded a deployed unit in support of operations in Afghanistan and served as the Senior Airdrop Systems Technician over all aerial delivery operations in Afghanistan.
Philosophy of Teaching:
Josh’s teaching philosophies include lifelong learning — fostering that in himself and students. Josh loves his family unconditionally and they are his life! He truly adores his wife of 30 years, Heather, and children: Jacob, Kaylee, and Madysyn.
Goals for the Class:
• Further each child’s innate love of learning
• Encourage independence and self-discipline
• Promote respect for self and others as unique individuals in the class and beyond
• Foster success in academics and soft skills
• Provide a positive educational experience
Class Schedule:
8:00 Arrival
8:30 Entry task
9:00 Morning circle*
9:30 PE
10:00 Centers: literacy, social studies; snack
11:30 Outside play
12:00 Lunch
12:30 Silent reading
1:00 Afternoon circle and centers: STEM; snack
2:30 Outside play
3:00 Maker Space; snack
5:00 Close of school
* Wednesday 9-10: Art
* Thursday 9-10: Music