The School District of Philadelphia proudly announces Kristi Schwartz as our Teacher of the Month, a recognition that captures the essence of educational excellence and unwavering dedication to student success.

For the past decade at Edwin Forrest Elementary School, Mrs. Schwartz has transformed her classroom into more than just a learning space – it’s a haven where every student feels seen, heard, and capable of achieving their dreams. Each morning, she personally greets every child by name, setting the tone for a day filled with discovery and growth in an environment adorned with student achievements and encouraging messages.

What truly sets Mrs. Schwartz apart is her remarkable ability to balance high academic standards with compassionate support. Her innovative approach to mathematics instruction has earned her district-wide recognition, leading to her selection for the District’s Teaching Video Library. In December, central office representatives filmed her classroom techniques to serve as an exemplar for educators across Philadelphia, a testament to her masterful teaching methods.

Mrs. Schwartz’s classroom is a sensory-rich wonderland where learning comes alive through thoughtfully designed experiences. She understands that every student learns differently, skillfully implementing Multi-Linguistic Representations (MLRs) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) strategies to ensure no child is left behind. Whether it’s through hands-on activities, interactive discussions, or personalized guidance, she creates an environment where mistakes are viewed as stepping stones to success.

Her commitment to student growth extends beyond traditional teaching methods. Through consistent check-ins and targeted progress monitoring, she ensures every student receives the support they need while maintaining the independence to flourish. The results speak for themselves – her students show remarkable academic progress and, more importantly, develop the confidence to tackle any challenge that comes their way.

As we celebrate Mrs. Schwartz’s outstanding contributions to education, we’re not just recognizing a teacher – we’re honoring someone who has dedicated herself to shaping the future, one student at a time. Her selection as Teacher of the Month reflects not only her exceptional teaching abilities but also her profound impact on the entire school community.

Congratulations, Kristi Schwartz, on this well-deserved recognition. Your dedication to excellence in education continues to inspire both students and fellow educators throughout the School District of Philadelphia.