Hello, 1st Grade Parents! My name is Ariana Vacketta and I’d like to introduce myself as the long-term substitute for 1B. Many of you and your children already know me as Juliana’s mom; she was in Mrs. Alonzi’s class last year and I was privileged enough to get to know your littles through kindergarten lunch duty and frequently subbing as the Kindergarten Aide.

A little bit of my teaching background: After receiving my Bachelors in Education from the University of Michigan, I taught 6th-9th grade ELA/social studies for four years in Manchester, Michigan until my husband and I moved to West Bloomfield in 2015. I spent the next few years tutoring elementary and secondary students in English and Math at Best Brains Learning Center, as well as subbing daily in the surrounding districts. I have been home with my kids (Jameson is in AM Preschool with Ms. Leslie) since Juliana was born, but have always yearned to return to teaching full-time. I never thought I’d be starting first grade with my girl, but like Mr. Hoying mentioned in his previous email, I trust in God’s plan (while God laughed at mine as I was thinking I’d be back to childless errands and warm coffee in the mornings next week). In all seriousness, I am very much looking forward to kicking off your child’s 1st grade experience and feel so blessed to embark on this journey with our wonderful St. Pat's family!

Mrs. Alfaro and I will be working very closely together to begin the school year as a united front. Both classes will follow similar lessons, curriculum, and classroom management. While I recognize the absence of a permanent teacher is not ideal, I promise, both as an educator and fellow parent, to provide the absolute best possible for your students through team teaching, consistent communication home, and lots of caffeine. Thank you in advance for your support and positivity in the next few weeks!