My name is Lou Sullivan. I began teaching fifth grade in Brunswick in the fall of 1990. I love the age and the subjects, so I’ve been here ever since. I try to develop a classroom where my students respect and value themselves and one another. That allows us all to get the most out of our year.
Here are some answers to questions my students often ask:
What is your favorite subject?
I really enjoy the variety I get to teach in fifth grade, but I suppose my very favorite subjects are History and Literacy. I love learning about our American History. We do many activities that bring history to life. The many historic novels available for this age allow us to almost go back in time to visit the important events our country has experienced.
What is your favorite food?
There isn’t much I don’t like, but my favorite is Italian. My mother’s ancestors came from Italy and she was a great cook. I still have many of her family recipes.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy being outdoors. I especially like hiking, camping, cross-country skiing, and ice skating. I am an avid (but amateur) woodworker, and do lots of home improvements during the summer.
Were you a good student at our age?
Sort of. In fifth grade I liked school (most of the time!). I worked pretty hard, but I wasn’t very organized. I got some fantastic grades and some poor grades. I still remember my fifth grade teacher, Mr. Auten, as one of my best teachers ever. I’m glad he was patient with me as I learned to be more disciplined and focused.
What is your favorite fifth grade book?
I have two. Where the Red Fern Grows and The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle. If you haven’t read them – don’t! We’ll probably read them together this year.
Why do you like fifth grade?
Fifth graders are still kids, but they can read and write at levels that I enjoy. They are also old enough to get my dry humor!