Salaam, my name is Melanie Mendez. I am the 3rd grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year! I am so excited to be working with your wonderful 3rd grader! This is my 3rd year at Hadi School. I attended Northern Illinois University where I received my Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education and my English as a Second Language Endorsement. I am currently enrolled in my Masters program through Concordia University where I am studying Curriculum and Instruction: Trauma Resilience. In our classroom we will be learning new concepts and skills through various learning styles, project based learning, and engagement! I strongly emphasize the growth mindset: mistakes are ok, they help us learn and our brain to grow! As well as the idea that students are in charge of their learning as leaders of tomorrow! I incorporate flexible seating, positive reinforcement, and technology into our everyday activities in class. It will be a super year in 3rd grade!