11 Charter Road, Acton, MA 01720 (978) 264-4700, Ext.

3751

Katharine Shiebler
64A Forest St
Watertown, MA 02472

June 25, 2013

To Whom It May Concern:

It is my sincere pleasure to write this letter of recommendation on behalf of Tasha

Peterson. I have known Tasha in a professional capacity since September, 2011. She has
been working with me in our third grade classroom as an assistant teacher since the
beginning of the 2012 school year. In addition to working with students in a variety of group
sizes and structures, Tasha plays a key part in meeting the social and emotional needs of our
students. Her educational expertise, rapport with colleagues and children, and ability to
adapt to any situation make her an integral part of the classroom community. I believe she
would be an excellent candidate to any Masters program.
Tasha consistently maintains professional standards. She is fully committed to her
role, and is more than willing to go above and beyond what is required to meet the needs of
her students and to assist her colleagues. Her dependability is well known within our school
community, and she has proven herself to be able and willing to work in a variety of roles.
She consistently seeks out new chances to further her professional knowledge and
experience.
It is clear that Tasha already has a great deal of professional expertise and
knowledge. She draws on a wide background of educational theories and specific
curriculum, as well as creating and implementing her own lessons, strategies, and activities.
She is able to add to existing curriculum, and uses this knowledge to help all students access
the curriculum in engaging, meaningful ways. Despite her clear familiarity and expertise,
she is always eager to seek out new chances to learn more from her colleagues, and has
availed herself of many professional development opportunities.
Throughout the year, Tasha has consistently worked independently with our
students. She has made very strong connections with all children. I have seen her draw out
amazing work from students beyond what they thought they were capable of on numerous
occasions. This same level of personal connection is evident in her relationships with her
colleagues. She is able to work with all staff in an effective and dynamic way. She is clearly
respected and well liked by all staff members, and brings her flexibility and willingness to
help to all interactions.
I believe that Tasha is a truly gifted educator. Working with her has made it clear
that she has an innate ability to connect with students, and to create and maintain their
excitement about any content. She assists all students in accessing the curriculum and
reaching their full potential, no matter what personal challenges they may face. Her passion
for teaching and love of children are evident, and she brings a great deal of energy and
wisdom to all her roles. I know that she will bring this same passion and desire to further
her own expertise as an educator to any program she is a part of.

Sincerely,
Katharine M. Shiebler
Classroom teacher, Merriam Elementary
M.S. Elementary and Special Education, Wheelock College