Teacher puts emphasis on reading

Megan Eberhardt Megan Eberhardt stresses the importance of reading to her thirdgrade students.

The Tierra Linda Elementary School teacher's commitment to her students is the main reason she was honored by the Camarillo Chamber of Commerce with the Teacher of the Month award in April.

"It's really surprising," said Eberhardt, who has taught at Tierra Linda for six years. "I'm honored, but at the same time, I wish it's something I could share with everyone, because nothing we do is on our own."

Tierra Linda Principal June Pack said Eberhardt deserved the distinction.

"She has an absolute passion for helping all children learn," Pack said. "It doesn't matter when I go into her classroom, all of her students are engaged in meaningful learning tasks."

Eberhardt, 27, said third grade is an important year for students to attain comprehension and a better appreciation for reading.

"Third grade is kind of a gateway year," the teacher said. "It's an exciting year to see kids learn to really love reading. They move into chapter books and serious books and learn to love reading (for life.)"

Eberhardt and fellow thirdgrade teacher Diane Yamashiro formed a reading workshop to develop language arts curriculum that was already in place. Small groups of students focus on reading comprehension and developing reading strategies.

Eberhardt enjoys working with students individually and gave credit to the parent volunteers who help in the classroom.

The sixth-year teacher earned her master's in education from California State University Channel Islands in May 2008. She earned her undergraduate degree and teaching credential from Pepperdine and would like to pursue a doctorate that focuses on curriculum and research.

Eberhardt is a graduate of Buena High school in Ventura, where she played water polo. She is a member of Tierra Linda's School Site Council, which comprises parents and teachers who oversee the school plan and monitor its progress and goals.

Eberhardt understands the challenges of teaching youngsters, but she always tries to stay one step ahead.

"I never stay the same," she said. "I keep looking for other things to add to the classroom and add to the curriculum."