
Kelsee Ready
Principal & Director of Weekday Education
Principal & Director of Weekday Education
Academic Dean of Education & Managing Director
Transitional Kindergarten Teacher
Transitional Kindergarten Teacher
Students want a chance to be heard. They get so excited when they get to share their special interests with their peers. I find ways to incorporate those special interests, whether it be Pokemon, dinosaurs or unicorns, to my curriculum as much as possible. When students are really interested in something, they will produce their best work.
Our school provides a warm, welcoming and safe environment for students to grow both academically and spiritually. The small class sizes enable students to get to know each other and work well together. Our small, but mighty, school community gives students, parents, faculty and staff a sense of family. We are fortunate to be able to build friendships and connections that last well after students graduate from FLS.
When I was in Kindergarten, I remember sitting at rug time listening to a story my teacher, Miss. Kelly, was reading. I was just fascinated by her facial expressions and hand movements. She made me feel like I was part of the story. I keep this memory in mind when I read a book to my students. I try my best to make them feel part of the story too.
Kindergarten Teacher
Kindergarten Teacher
I believe that in kindergarten, children need to develop a LOVE of learning. They need to be excited to come to school each day, so it is my job to make sure they feel safe, loved, and respected. I believe that during this first year of official schooling, kindergartners need to realize what they are capable of - that they absolutely CAN do hard things. They learn as a community and make lots of mistakes together because mistakes are how we learn! I believe in providing learning opportunities that build confidence and perseverance because I know it will set them up for success in 1st grade and beyond.
I have chosen FLS for my own children because of the family-like learning community and teachers who go above and beyond for their students. It also feels so great to know that in addition to being challenged academically, my children are also being filled spiritually.
I remember learning an alphabet song when I was in kindergarten "A A A A Albatross, I fly seas and go across" and being a flower girl in my teacher's wedding! I don't remember very much from that year, but I do remember my teacher's smile and how much she loved us!
Kindergarten Teacher
Kindergarten Teacher
I believe that children grow and thrive in an environment where they feel safe and appreciated and honored. In my classroom I strive for everyone to feel valued and respected. Kindergarten is all about taking risks and doing hard things. I believe that creating an environment that encourages growth and risk is the best way for a young student to develop confidence and the skills that will make them successful throughout their academic career.
First Lutheran is so much more than a school It’s a family – a community. The student families and the faculty are closely knit. Being a family of faith, we pray together, we do life together and we want the best for each other. It’s a place to grow, to be ourselves and to be real. It’s a place that is safe and nurturing and “home”
I remember changing schools in the middle of kindergarten and being so worried about making new friends and learning a new campus. The teacher at my new school was warm and inviting. I don’t remember too much about that year, but I remember my teacher making sure that I felt safe and loved and I was encouraged to blossom. I know that I was loved!
1st Grade Teacher
1st Grade Teacher
I believe that every child has a right to a quality education. By quality, I mean that all subjects should be given equal value, and all students should be given every opportunity to achieve their individual best. I believe the classroom should be a warm, safe, and supportive learning environment so students are comfortable at their own level of learning. I believe students should be exposed to a variety of experiences and avenues as a way to meet their diverse learning styles and abilities.
FLS is a community. It is a community of people who work together and who understand that working together is what is needed to help students be successful in their learning. We use our differences to teach compassion and understanding for others. All grade levels learn to work with one another and the older students become role models for the younger students. Students not only gain an academic education through fun activities, but they leave FLS with the same compassion and understanding for others as they have been shown.
Some of my best first grade memories were made with my friends, one of whom I am still friends with today. We rode the bus to and from school together, spent our recesses together, and we were always partners in the classroom playing family or creating art. Finger painting was always my favorite thing to do in the classroom.
1st Grade Teacher
1st Grade Teacher
As a teacher my number one goal is for students to feel known, supported and loved. I give my students choice in what we learn and how we learn, so they are not only learning content and skills, but they are learning how to become lifelong learners. My goal for my students is that they become self advocates for their own learning needs, understanding themselves as learners so they can continue to advocate for themselves and their learning for the rest of their lives.
Above all else, our classroom should be a place where students feel safe to bring every part of who they are and learn how to become the best version of themselves.
From the moment I began substitute teaching at this school I felt so supported by this community and knew they cared about me and my future. It is so wonderful to be a part of a community that lifts each other up and that is constantly rooting for you. What a wonderful place to learn and grow in Christ.
All of my favorite things in 1st grade had to do with creating. I remember writing books, creating art out of anything I could find, and creating new games to play with my friends using all the wonderful things I had been learning.
2nd Grade Teacher
2nd Grade Teacher
My Philosophy of teaching is that children learn best in a creative, inviting, engaging environment. I want each child to not only master the skills of 2nd grade but emerge from my class as a confident student ready to take on the challenges of the next grade levels. I treat our classroom as a small community and our learning as a combination of shared experiences and knowledge gathering. By encouraging questions, comments, hands on experiences, and discussions, I hope to help the 2nd graders develop a lifelong love of learning.
To me, FLS is like a family. From the first day I began working here, I was welcomed and I feel that welcoming atmosphere definitely extends to our students and families. We offer a challenging curriculum that is also a faith filled one. It is a perfect balance to balance students in their academic and faith lives.
I actually decided to become a teacher as a 2nd grader! My 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Dowell, was such a kind, caring , thoughtful indidvidual and I remember telling my parents that one day I too wanted to be a teacher. I still have a card she gave me and an endangered animal report I wrote while in her class.
2nd Grade Teacher
2nd Grade Teacher
As a teacher, I promise to treat each student as an individual, and to know each student academically and personally, so that I can cater to their individual needs and interests. My goal is to recognize each child’s unique qualities and ideas, to encourage them to think creatively and freely, and to support their opinions and ideas. I want each student to feel confident, knowing that I will never criticize or judge, them or their ideas. Learning new teaching methods is a priority so that I can provide my students with the most successful strategies and the best resources that I can acquire to support their educational experience.
First Lutheran Church and School is a close knit community where classmates become life-long friends. I attended First Lutheran School from 1st through 8th grade and have so many special memories from the classes, projects, and field trips I was able to participate in during those 7 years. I feel so blessed to be a member of the First Lutheran community and love being able to give back to this community as a 2nd grade teacher.
In 2nd grade, my favorite unit was about making and creating our own made up land. We used clay to build mountains, rivers, lakes, and valleys and painted and labeled each of these landscapes on our terrain model. The writing assignment aligned with this project allowed us to create the people and animals that lived in our made up land. The freedom to use my imagination and make my ideas come to life made this learning experience such a fond memory.
Ever since elementary school, I’ve wanted to become a teacher. In 2008, I graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a B.A. in Social Science and a minor in Educational Studies. The Education courses and classroom volunteer experiences inspired me to pursue a Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential and a Master’s Degree in Education at UCI. After graduating in 2010, I substituted in the Irvine Unified School District for grade levels preschool-high school, as well as at First Lutheran and in Kauai at Kalaheo Elementary as a long term substitute.
3rd Grade Teacher
3rd Grade Teacher
Since I was very young I have wanted to be a teacher. Playing school was one of my favorite past times. Even though I was not a very assertive child, I always insisted on being the teacher as we played. Being a teacher has challenged me, taught me many things, and has brought me great joy. Education is a priceless treasure that helps people achieve personal and professional dreams.
Educators and students are always learning, and by learning they are changing. As an educator, I support children in growing spiritually, academically, emotionally, physically, and socially. The most important thing I teach my students is that Jesus is our Lord and Savior, and we are to love God and love others. Academically, I support them in reaching high standards, building stamina as students, doing quality work, making connections to prior knowledge and across the curriculum, and learning from our mistakes. On the emotional level, I teach them to treat each other with kindness, respect, dignity, and grace. Physically, we put importance on taking care of our bodies by eating healthy food, getting rest and exercise, and not putting things in our bodies that would harm them. Socially, they are taught to listen and follow directions, follow classroom and school-wide procedures, to focus on what they are supposed to be doing, improve organizational skills, and get along with others. Furthermore, they are taught to demonstrate integrity, to be honest, and to be dependable. Since all of us have different abilities, I teach by using different modalities. I demonstrate as I speak and model expected behaviors. Learning is enhanced by practice and review. It is a great honor, privilege, and responsibility to be a teacher, and I hold myself to high standards.
I was introduced to First Lutheran School when I attended a teachers’ conference on the FLS campus. I was impressed with the high-quality way in which the day was run and how-well organized everything was. Soon afterwards, my daughter and I visited an Open House. Besides all of the wonderful things we saw in the classrooms, I was impressed with the other opportunities offered such as Adventures in Art.
Soon after this, I was hired as a third-grade teacher and my daughter came to FLS as a student. Because of this, I know what a wonderful school FLS is from the point of view of a teacher and a parent. Each teacher my daughter had was so wonderful! The trips she got to go on in the upper grades were not only valuable learning experiences, but something she will always remember. She was not only well prepared for high school, but also for college. On top of all this, the students learn about what it means to be a follower of Jesus.
Since I teach third grade, I am going to recall some things I remember about being in third grade. I think the main thing is learning the multiplication facts. I’m so glad we were required to, because I continued to need them as I learned math going throughout the grades, and I also use them in my day-to-day life. Besides math, we learned reading, language arts, science, and social studies, but I also remember creating art projects and square dancing in the classroom. At recess we would play hopscotch, jump rope, swing, and sometimes play jacks. For P.E., we learned to play volleyball, basketball, and baseball. We loved it when we got to play Dodge Ball, Red Rover, and Mother May I. Relay races were fun too. We could buy a hot lunch in the cafeteria or bring a sack lunch. If we had brought a dime from home, we could buy an ice-cream bar after lunch.
3rd Grade Teacher
3rd Grade Teacher
The students are my second family not only during the school year, but even after third grade. I believe that each child should learn in a loving and supportive classroom while attaining academic success and social growth. Mother Theresa said it best, “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.”
At First Lutheran Church and School our mission statement is to be God centered, respectful of others, academic successful, clear- communicators, and equipped for success. Our campus builds on faith, strong academics, and a close sense of community. Many co-curricular and enrichment opportunities with dedicated teachers are available to students during school hours and on campus after school.
I remember when I was in third grade, I had a wonderful teacher name Mrs. Kaufman. In her class, we recited multiplication facts to a stop watch, read SRA in centers with headphones, and had fun learning. She inspired me to learn more about U.S. history and art. During my third grade lunch breaks, I would volunteer in the first grade classroom to help with the students. My first grade teacher took me and my best friend horseback riding once on a Saturday.
4th Grade Teacher
4th Grade Teacher
When students are provided a fun, safe, loving, and engaging learning environment, students learn without even realizing it. When students feel valued, they want to learn. I strive to create a classroom that follows the Golden Rule: Matthew 7:12, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” This becomes our Class Motto each year to set the tone for our learning environment.
The staff here at First Lutheran Church & School are incredible. They work tirelessly to reach each student, no matter their learning ability or style. The pastor(s) are always available to provide help and guidance to those who need it. Each of my three sons received an excellent education attending First Lutheran School from the time they were infants through eighth grade. Even though they are now in college or have graduated from University, each of my sons have remained in contact with several of the friends they made while attending FLS. The students, parents and staff all become one big “First Lutheran Family.” We are a community of people who love and serve our Lord and Savior, Jesus.
I fondly remember Mrs. Anderson, my blonde-haired, blue-eyed, bubbly & kind fourth-grade teacher. She did not allow her short stature to prevent her from moving quickly around the classroom in her enormously high heels! It still puts a smile on my face as I imagine Mrs. Anderson racing down the hallway with her short blonde hair bobbing up and down while her students trailed behind her, trying in vain to keep up with her!
4th grade teacher
4th grade teacher
I have found FLS to be a warm, safe and welcoming environment where kids are supported and encouraged. With smaller class sizes, students do not fall through the cracks. It’s a place where kids can still be kids.
I remember fourth grade was the year we got to move to the upper grade building.This building was three stories tall with a fire chute, like a giant slide, attached to the side.During fire drills we got to slide down.That was an adventure!By the time we reached sixth grade, however, the fire chute and the building had become too old and was torn down shortly after we finished the school year.
5th Grade Teacher
5th Grade Teacher
I feel like 5th grade should be about learning how to be more independent, learning to ask more clarifying questions, and learning how to solve problems. To accomplish this the class needs to be safe, inclusive and supportive of each other in a God centered classroom.
This is a community that can stay connected even after you have left the community here on campus. Friendships are continued and students stay in contact with former teachers. It is amazing to learn what they accomplish after they move on from FLS.
I remember the trips we took in school, the challenges we overcame together as a group, and the growing we did as we learned to do more things for ourselves. Constitution baseball was a favourite in 8th grade.
5th Grade Teacher
5th Grade Teacher
I believe that the classroom should be a safe place for students to learn from their mistakes and take risks in their learning. Respect for God and each other, collaboration, and developing independent learning skills will be at the core of everything we do in our class.
I was first introduced to FLS as a teacher visiting for the annual Oratorical Affair. I was so impressed with the school’s faith based education and community atmosphere that years later, when my son was ready for kindergarten, FLS was my family’s first choice. As my son attended K-8th grade at FLS, I loved seeing him and his classmates grow not only in their academic knowledge but also as capable and confident young citizens of the community.
In fifth grade, I remember reading and art being my favorite subjects. I have fond memories of Ms. Kvamme, my social studies teacher (formerly my first grade and soon to be my 6-8th teacher). Ms. Kvamme made learning history fun, while also encouraging her students to question. I also remember having fun hanging out in after school care with my friends and many kind counselors
6th Grade Math & Science Teacher
6th Grade Math & Science Teacher
To provide a superior quality of education to every student taught as wellas to provide an atmosphere where students can successfully develop their fullest potential.
First Lutheran is a placeyou find a close-knit community and where everyone is concerned about each other.I love the energy, enthusiasm and desire that students have to learn.
I have been extremely fortunate to be surrounded by those who have encouraged me to become a teacher. My father was high school math and science teacher who was mainly my inspiration of wanting to become a teacher.
6th grade teacher
6th grade teacher
FLCS is a warm inclusive and caring place. It's not just a school or a church, but a community filled with people that want what is best for that community. We communicate wants and needs between students, parents, staff, and administration with ease and confidence. I loved my time as a student at FLCS so much that I became a teacher here.
One specific memory of so many is our ancient Egypt day. The whole classroom was made into a maze through a pyramid with our projects and hieroglyphs on the fabric walls. We had ancient Egypt games outside and tried to dress up as they would have. My overall memories are filled with laughter, enjoying learning, and connecting with teachers and friends.
I graduated from Concordia University, Irvine with a BA in Education. I substituted in Irvine USD for a few years before moving to China to teach English as a language, 2nd grade, and 10th grade English course through a Nova Scotia curriculum. I then taught a homeroom pod of 7th graders before coming to FLS.
7th Grade Teacher
7th Grade Teacher
FLS provides a nurturing and welcoming environment for students and staff alike. Smaller class sizes allow teachers to get to know their students and so provide more personalized support and attention.
Linking concepts that we explore in class to real life applications and making connections is essential and makes learning more relevant to students. Science and technology keeps expanding our understanding of our world and we need more scientists to carry on that work. I hope to influence students’ thoughts about science and make them aware of the many opportunities for them in the science / tech field.
I remember my middle school science classes. We did lots of simple experiments in chemistry that usually involved hydrogen gas production and making it ‘pop’. My biology teacher taught us about circulation and that’s when the biological sciences began to intrigue me. How do the molecules and atoms that are working inside us maintain this thing called life?
7th Grade Teacher
7th Grade Teacher
I love working for First Lutheran because of our small learning community. I love that teachers know almost all the students on campus because of how interconnected we all are.
I remember very little of 7th grade, but I made it through! And so shall your children. But in all honesty, my favorite memories from math classes were board races and other opportunities to compete with my classmates in productive games.
8th Grade Teacher
8th Grade Teacher
I believe that students learn best when they are in an environment where they are actively engaged in both group and individual learning through project based and student led activities. I believe that students retain and are more actively involved when we follow a student centered approach to education.
I have been a part of the FLS community since I was in preschool, whether I was a student or staff member. So I have always considered this place my home. I think this is why FLS is so special, it creates a sense of community. The relationships between students and teachers is very important, and one what is fostered and nurtured in such a close knit community.
I remember my 8th grade vividly. It was the last year with all my childhood friends, before we took off for the new adventures of High School. Our east coast class trip was the marker of this stage in our life coming to an end, but the memories that were created were unforgettable.
Technology Coordinator & Middle School Computer Technology Teacher
Technology Coordinator & Middle School Computer Technology Teacher
To teach students to use technology safely, productively, and collaboratively.
FLS has a long history as an educational institution, has a highly qualified faculty, and is WASC accredited.
I remember when visiting the computer lab when I was a student at First Lutheran. All the software was on 5.25 inch floppy disks. Students today don't even know what a floppy disk is, but somehow it's still persisted as the 'Save' icon for many applications! Despite the limited technology at the time, the class was still incredibly fun. I always strive to make my classes equally engaging!
Physical Education Teacher
Physical Education Teacher
I believe that my job as a P.E. teacher is to assist kids in finding physical activities that they enjoy and feel like they can participate in, into their adult lives, to sustain a healthy lifestyle. I love when kids discover a knew sport or exercise that they enjoy. Also, I believe that Physical Education helps build the social skills and cooperation skills needed to be successful in all aspects of life.
Because of our wonderful P.E. teacher! Honestly, our staff is amazing. Each teacher cares so deeply for their students. Every year, students who have graduated return to visit the school and their teachers. I think that speaks for itself.
my P.E. teacher in elementary school (who also happens to be my mom) would put on a track meet for the whole school at the end of the year. She would include events like a parent-child relay. It was so much competing against my classmates.
Music Teacher
Music Teacher
This is my 17th year teaching music at FLS. My primary concern as a music teacher is to create a safe space for students to learn, create, and perform music.
First Lutheran School recognizes the importance of music education and gives students many opportunities to participate in music related activities.
My own music education started at an early age, and the class I remember the most was 5th grade music with Mr. Bentwood. He taught us how to conduct a choir, sing in German, and play the recorder. I participated in choirs at church and school throughout junior high and high school, and went on to earn a B.A. in Music from California State University, Long Beach. After graduating, I toured and recorded with Ray Conniff and the Singers for many years. Now I’m happy to be working with students to find the musician within themselves.
Senior Administrative Assistant
Registrar
Supervisor, Before and After School Care
Health Specialist
Marketing & Communications Intermediate & Middle School Art
Marketing & Communications Intermediate & Middle School Art
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