Hello! 

     Welcome to Paloma Elementary!  My name is Kathleen Plunkett and I have loved working at Paloma Elementary since 2009!   I am so excited and thrilled to be teaching your child and working with you this year!  This is my 34th year of teaching.  The last 31 years I have taught in the Temecula Valley School District teaching Kindergarten, First and Second Grade.  I received my Bachelor of Arts in Education through Point Loma College majoring in Early Childhood Development and minoring in Psychology.  After a couple years, I received my Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction through Azusa Pacific University.  Later, I received my CLAD Certificate (Crosscultural Language and Academic Development) through University of San Diego.  I have also received numerous certificates throughout the years as well.  

     I grew up in Ramona, a small country town in a big family.  My mom has been in education as long as I can remember.  When my Middle and High School days were over, I spent my afternoons working in classrooms helping kiddos at my mom's school.  This is when my love of teaching began.

     In 1988, I married my high school sweetheart/best friend and have lived in Temecula for most of those years.  We will celebrate our 35th anniversary together this year.  We have two amazing children, a daughter and son, who have shared their most incredible talents with us and the world throughout the years.  It is because of my own children that I grew in a variety of ways to become an even stronger educator.

     I believe all students hold within themselves special talents and skills they will utilize in the future.  It is my mission to teach my students to believe in themselves so these skills and talents can develop.  When a student has positive beliefs about themselves, they can accomplish many things and overcome obstacles they encounter, not just in school but throughout their lives.  I am passionate about teaching and I will do everything in my power to help your child to love learning. I believe the key to a successful program lies in open communication with students and parents.  I look forward to working with you and our students in our wonderful school team together.  

                              Warmly,

                          Mrs. Plunkett

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