Kindergarten

Teacher/Burnham School Communications Coordinator
My name is Jennifer Polley and I am very excited to be working with your child this year. This is my 32nd year teaching at Burnham School. I spent the first 15 years teaching the Pre-K program at Burnham and moved to Kindergarten 17 years ago.
My biggest goal this year is to make learning fun. Every day we will be singing, coloring, cutting, writing our names and enjoying new stories. We will also be learning about math concepts, sight words, letter sounds and correct letter formation. I want all children to LOVE school right from the start. It is very rewarding to see smiling faces every morning.
A little about me personally… I have a degree in Early Childhood Education from Eastern Illinois University and a Master's Degree in Teaching and Learning from St. Francis University with an Endorsement in ESL (English as a Second Language). I also have advanced my education by taking additional college classes, online courses and numerous workshops and seminars, so that I can keep up to date on new and current educational trends. I grew up in Lansing, IL and still live there with my 22 year old son who currently attends the University of Iowa. I love to travel, read, cook and spend time with family and friends.
Children in Kindergarten have not yet achieved total independence. Therefore; it takes strong family support, as well as support from the school and teacher, to help create a well rounded and successful Kindergartener. I am looking forward to working with your child and with you. Please contact me if you have any questions.