Fourth Grade
Fourth graders explore the curriculum through overarching themes of change integrated across subject areas and through the arts. Students are immersed in the history and culture of North Carolina through various role plays, re-enactments, and the arts. In math, we bring fundamental concepts to life through storytelling and authentic, real-world applications. We use the scientific method to encourage critical thinking skills. Students collaborate to research and write their own lines for our original play, The Incredible Journey, based on the cycles of the moon and themes of friendship and belonging. Students also create script adaptations after reading The Little Prince together and build puppet stages to film individual scenes they have created in small groups. There is a focus in fourth grade on creating a culture of respect and a community in which students are encouraged to reflect on their work. A value is placed on independent problem solving and collaboration in productive learning teams.
About the Fourth Grade Staff
Sheila holds a BA in Elementary Education and an M.Ed. in Reading, both obtained from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. She has certification in Exceptional Children as well and has taught in Elementary and EC settings over the past twenty-three years. She has spent the bulk of her career as an ELA teacher and has a passion for building a love of reading. She spends time gardening, running, yoga, exploring nature, and reading various types of literature. This community provides so many opportunities for personal growth in these areas, and can be found in the learning environment she helps to create for her students. She is excited to join the ArtSpace family. She is looking forward to the opportunity to integrate the Arts into an ELA and Social Studies environment that is both engaging and impactful.
About Jaime Munn
Jamie is starting his 26th year of teaching since graduating from Warren-Wilson College with an Elementary Education degree. Over the years, he has taught elementary grades 3-5 and middle school math to 6th and 7th graders. He renewed his National Board Certification and has earned a graduate degree from Western Carolina University in Middle Grades Math Education. His interests include: running, mountain biking, dancing, family time, and adventures in our beautiful mountains!
About Michelle Dunkel
Ms. Michelle is delighted to be joining the 4th grade team at ArtSpace! Michelle and her husband, Rich, moved to Asheville four years ago after many years of vacationing in the area along with their daughter, Rachel. Michelle graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in Elementary Education and has over 18 years of teaching experience. In her spare time, Michelle enjoys reading, hiking, baking, movies, dining in Asheville restaurants and spending time with family and friends. She looks forward to a wonderful year working with the fabulous staff and students at ArtSpace!