NAME:
Ms. Diane VanderLaan
SCHOOL:
Sarasota Middle School
CLASS:
6th Grade Dolphin Language Arts
SCHOOL PHONE:
941-361-6464
Greetings! My name is Diane VanderLaan and I am excited to be teaching
language arts on the Dolphin Team this year. This will be my 14th year of
teaching and my 3rd year at SMS. I've also taught 1st grade, math and
science. I'm a transplant from the great state of Michigan and am happy to
never shovel snow again! I earned a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from
Western Michigan University (go Broncos!), a second Bachelor's degree in
Education from Grand Valley State University (go Lakers!), and just
recently completed my Master's degree in Educational Leadership from the
University of South Florida (go Bulls!).
I look forward to a fantastic school year! Please contact me with any
questions, concerns or comments.
My mission for this class is to create independent, critical thinkers who,
through engaging activities and lessons, can master the content provided and
develop an appreciation for reading and writing. My hope is that these
skills and knowledge will assist them in one day assuming active and
productive roles in their local and global communities.