For this month, we’re introducing our new exciting Primary Lead teacher, Ms. Violet Reznicek!!

What are you most looking forward to teaching at Cardinal Bernardin Montessori Academy?

I am excited to follow in the footsteps of my kindergarten teacher, Ms. Thaker. She is one of the biggest reasons why I chose to pursue a career in early childhood education. Moreover, I am most looking forward to helping the children learn while acting as a strong role model for them, so that their future dreams can be achievable.

What is one of your hidden talents?

I think many people I know would say that I am really really good at puzzles. There are times when I seem to have an uncanny ability to find exact puzzle pieces even when there are hundreds of other pieces still in the pile!

Do you have a funny teaching memory?

At my previous school, I was known for being fun(ny) every Wednesday. My class would participate in a science experiment with me and during the experiment I would put on a beautifully dyed lab coat and impersonate a mad scientist!

What would the students be surprised to find out about you?

Something the students would be surprised to find out about me is that I used to work at Omaha, Nebraska’s Children’s Museum. During my time at the museum I was able to, among other things, participate in many outreach programs to local schools, as well as meet a lot of Disney princesses!

What’s a typical Saturday night like for you?

My typical Saturday night is usually pretty low key. I will either spend time baking/cooking or hanging out with my family and friends.

Do you know any foreign languages?

I do not know any foreign languages, but I do know a fair amount of American Sign Language.

What’s your favorite city and why?

That’s an easy one for me–it’s Bokeelia, Florida. It is a small town that is very quiet and representative of “Old Florida”. I love being able to go on nature walks, swim, walk on the beach and collect seashells.

What are some pets you’ve had or would like to own?

My in-laws have two cats named Patrick and Larry that I like to consider my own. They are both orange tabbies that love belly rubs, laying in the sun, and chasing birds around the backyard. So, someday, I hope to have my own cats. I would name them Walter and Wilson.

What is your dream vacation? Or what has been the most memorable vacation you’ve been on?

I love animals and nature, so I think my dream vacation would be to go on a safari in Africa. Sharing my vacation with giraffes and elephants sounds like a great time!

What is your favorite children’s book or what book from your childhood have you never forgotten?

So my favorite book to read to children in the classroom is a tie between Our Peaceful Classroom and Brown Bear Brown Bear What Do You See? (a classic!) Our Peaceful Classroom is by Aline D. Wolf and it’s a book with children’s illustrations of what they think their classrooms look like and what Montessori means to them.

Of all the states you’ve visited, which had the best cuisine?

By far my favorite state to visit for food is Wisconsin. I am a very big fan of cheese curds, cream puffs, and frozen custard.

What is your first memory from school?

Lining up to go inside of school–all the noises and voices. I was so excited to learn and play with the other kids just like my older sister got to.

Is there a quote or saying that you live your life by?

Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart – Winnie the Pooh.