Middle School (6-7-8)
Sandra Maki
|
Hello,
The classroom has taken many forms throughout my teaching journey. From the Redwoods to the Ponderosas, from circle tables to straight rows, from English as the first language to English as a foreign language, the one constant has been my passion to inspire awe and wonder, connection and community, growth and discovery. The focus of my undergrad was early adolescent development -- knowledge of the child, the center, and the content of the curriculum, the fuel. My first years were in Santa Monica, California teaching middle school humanities, followed by time in China teaching English and studying Chinese. I also received my Masters in Cross Cultural Communications and TESOL at that time. When I returned back to the States, I swooned at my future husband's silly camp songs (ask Ben about the Short Neck Buzzard) and we found ourselves moving to Prescott to work together in Outdoor Education. Four years and four babies later (all current Skyview students), our family had been established, and it was back to the classroom for three years at other charter schools here in Prescott. For me, Skyview is like coming home, as a teacher to the 6th grade. I am excited to work with such a vibrant, caring community and be entrusted with the hearts and minds of such a special treasured developmental age. I look forward to the year ahead, come what may, and the songs that will be sung. (I'll even sing the one about the buzzard for you, upon request! |
Karla Cruz
|
Hi there!
My name is Karla Cruz and I have been at Skyview since 2013. I started as a teachers aide in multiple classrooms K-8 which has given me the opportunity to experience working with students of all ages. Growing up I knew I always wanted to be a teacher. Coming from a family of immigrants, I knew that this was a dream that was not going to be easy. My family and I moved to US in 2001. I spent 6 years in English Language Learners program. With the support of my family, I was able to test out of the program and take normal classes in high school. In 2017 I graduated with my bachelors degree in elementary education. I then became the 5th and 6th grade teacher for 2 years. After my second year of teaching, I decided to take a step back and venture the world. I moved the to Big Island of Hawaii for a year and disconnected from reality until the pandemic hit. As I saw educators all over the country struggle during this time, I knew it was time to get back in the classroom. I have always been passionate about teaching, but knowing that I could continue impact lives during difficult times motivated me even more. |
Ben Maki
7th/8th Grade Teacher benmaki@skyview.k12.az.us |
Hey, my name is Ben Maki, I am the Middle School Science Teacher at Skyview. I've recently begun my teaching career in the classroom, but I've been teaching science and other subjects to middle schoolers since not long after I was in middle school myself. For 14 years I ran two Outdoor Education camps, one in Northern California and one right here in Prescott. When my first child was nearing school age, I heard about Skyview and realized right away that this was the school for my kids. Little did I know that ten years later, it would be the school for my whole family! My four kids all attend here and my wife is also a Skyview teacher. We've got a lot of investment in this school
When I'm not teaching, I just love to be outdoors: hiking, kayaking and camping. I'm also into woodworking and coding and just love figuring things out. |
Michelle Grubert
Math Teacher/Classroom Aide mgrubert@skyview.k12.az.us |
Hi there, I’m Michelle Grubert, and I am incredibly honored to be a part of the middle school team at Skyview. My three daughters eagerly joined the Skyview community after our family moved to Prescott from California in 2015, and I followed soon after. I love witnessing bright, creative students learning, making connections, working together, sharing their gifts, and expressing themselves. I am also blessed by the community of teachers and staff at Skyview whose love, passion, and creativity make for a remarkable learning environment. I have taught math, English, music, and theatre to young people from Kindergarten through 12th grade. It's fun to be able to share many of my passions at Skyview.
|
Laura Scott
Classroom Aide |
Hello!
I’m Ms. Laura. Originally from Oregon, my husband and I made Prescott our home in 2010. Having worked with children and youth in some manner throughout my adult life, my intention is to provide a safe, constant source of love and encouragement while allowing them room to grow. Having joined the Skyview community in 2022, I quickly connected with the beautiful, nurturing atmosphere here. It’s an honor to work with a community that endeavors to see each student as a whole person, encouraging them to love learning and grow in character. Being in the classroom and seeing the students light up as they make connections with both the curriculum and each other never ceases to amaze me. I am so very thankful and proud to be a part of this team, to know these students, and to partner with families! Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time pursuing many creative hobbies, being inspired by nature, and connecting with loved ones. |
