Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Ms. Lagana and I will be your child’s teacher for this year. I am the sixth child born into a middle-class family of eight from Eastpointe, MI. Shortly after graduation; I followed a family tradition by joining the Armed Forces. I served eight years between the Army and North Carolina, Louisiana, and Michigan National Guards. The military lifestyle brought many demands, but allowed me the opportunity to travel to a variety of places, foreign and domestic. I met my husband in Korea, where we flew as part of an UH-60/Blackhawk protocol crew. We are now proud parents of a beautiful and healthy five-year-old girl and a four-year-old boy.
After successfully and honorably completing the patriotic chapter of my life, I returned to college in pursuit of my educational goals. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education (grades 1-8) from Northwestern State University of Natchitoches, Louisiana. In early 2007, I also completed a Master of Arts Degree in Teaching Reading and Language Arts at Oakland University. This will be my thirteenth year teaching third grade at Violet. However, I have had the privilege of teaching 3rd grade gifted, 4th grade, 6th grade, 8th grade and substituting grades K– 8.
I believe all students have the potential to learn. The teacher and parents share the key role in the future of our students. Children are not made from the same cookie-cutter mold and therefore their products and successes should be expected to be as individual as they are. Effective teachers provide a firm but inviting learning environment, and strive to build intrinsic motivation and creativity in his/her students. Caring teachers instill lifelong values to help children become responsible citizens.
Finally, many years of interaction with diverse ages, personalities, and multicultural backgrounds, allow me to accept others for who they are. My life experiences have taught me to work as a team player, carry my share of the load, and maintain high standards for myself. I expect my students to do their personal best and set high standards for themselves as well.
I look forward to working with you and your child. Let’s make it a great experience!