Kristen Ziegler

4053 Regal Rd.

Conway, SC 29526
(843)997-6638
February 18th, 2016
To Whom It May Concern:
Courtney Russell has been working to complete her semester long field experience in my
third grade classroom, at Waterway Elementary. Words cannot express how valuable of an
asset she is to education and to the students she works with. I would highly recommend her for
a teaching position at any grade level.
Ms. Russell exemplifies professionalism in every aspect of her daily interactions with
students, colleagues, and with administration. She greets students and staff with a smile at the
beginning of every communication. She is always on time and is conscientious with time
management during the instructional day. Most importantly, her positive outlook and attitude is
such an encouraging and admirable quality among those around her.
During the three week observation period, Ms. Russell observed several lessons in diverse
student settings. She was very enthusiastic to learn about standards and even more passionate
about finding ways to differentiate for individual students. She was quick to identify students
who needed extra attention and direction and worked diligently to form relationships with those
students. It was evident that she created a bond with each student in this small amount of
time. Ms. Russell was eager to learn the curriculum and understand the essentials of each
standard. We often discussed methods of delivering instruction, transitions, and refocusing
techniques. She is always interested in implementing new strategies and finding the
accommodations that work best for individual students.
During observations, Ms. Russell worked closely with students to observe interests,
academic needs, and personalities. While delivering lessons, she was able to offer extra
encouragement and modify instruction for individual students because of her previous
observations and interactions. She goes above and beyond with regards to planning,
implementing curriculum, and having a true knowledge and understanding of the students and
their needs.
Now that Ms. Russell has transitioned into full day teaching, I have been able to plan
with her, as well as observe her in a teaching capacity. Her love and want for the success of her
students is contagious. She holds students accountable and has very high expectations for each
and every student. By building those relationships, modeling, and making accommodations based
on individual students needs, she has able to build a strong foundation for teaching academic

standards and life skills. Most importantly, her personality makes students eager to volunteer
and succeed at challenging tasks. She is able to laugh and joke, while still having very clear
expectations and the students respond well to this combination.
In observing Ms. Russell, I offered constructive criticism and encouraged her to attempt
new techniques during her next lesson. Not only did she apply techniques, but she was excited
to see the outcome. I greatly admire her passion for growing as an educator, as we always need
to learn and grow.
Overall, words cannot express how absolutely well rounded and outstanding Ms. Russell is.
She embodies every aspect of an effective and inspirational educator. Ms. Russell would be a
wonderful asset to your school and to your students. While I would consider it a loss for Ms.
Russell to teach anywhere other than Waterway Elementary, she would be an amazing addition
to any school.

Sincerely,
Kristen Ziegler
Waterway Elementary
Third Grade Teacher
KZiegler@horrycountyschools.net