Tyler Kiecolt is an intelligent, energetic, passionate, and dedicated young woman who is

committed to become the best that she can be, including the best teacher she can be. She is
entering this career following in the footsteps of her mother, who is also a college of education
graduate. It was apparent from the first time I met her, last spring, that teaching was a passion of
hers.
She has implemented new information soaking up techniques and strategies from her exemplary
Rodel cooperating teacher, Janice Byrd, a second grade teacher at Peter Howell Elementary in
TUSD. She is not afraid to ask for advice, and she continues to emulate good sound teaching
strategies. Her lesson plans demonstrate a solid foundation in applying standards while making
the objective clear to the students. Not only does Tyler model her expectations, she also has
extremely high standards for student responses. It is apparent that she provides lessons that are
engaging, relevant, and enthusiastic. In her insect unit, I had the pleasure to observe a lesson on
the importance of text features in nonfiction. Her students were able to locate and help create an
anchor chart that they could use in subsequent lessons in their unit of study.
Ms. Kiecolt uses a wide range of formative and summative assessments to have students
demonstrate their thinking. She uses thumbs up/down, partner chat, and written responses. To
follow this up Tyler expects students to be able to explain their thinking process in all subjects
she teaches. She practices the multiple intelligences, which supports her belief that all students
are capable learners.
Tylers strength has been her ability to get to know each of her students personally. She uses
their strengths and talents providing each student success. She has created a positive, warm, and
respectful classroom environment in which all students are recognized and valued. It is obvious
that mutual respect exits. Her classroom management skills are very strong as well.
Ms. Kiecolt understands the importance of strong parent communication. She composes the
parent newsletter, has participated in parent conferences, and does daily check-ins with parents.
This supports her believe that parents are equal partners in their childs education.
Since her first day at Peter Howell, Tyler has had a close rapport with Janice Byrd. They discuss
each lesson and reflect on what has worked well and what changes they wish to implement as the
students proceed forward. They truly are a team. She also works with her grade level team
supporting student growth and learning.
In conclusion, Tyler Kiecolt is an exceptional student teacher with many skills and talents so it is
without hesitation that I nominate her for Outstanding Student Teacher, Spring 2016.

Jean Slaney
University of Arizona
Student Teaching Supervisor