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5th

 

Welcome to 5th Grade!

amanda_soto@upland.k12.ca.us

Welcome to 5th grade my awesome Smarties! My name is Mrs Soto and I am so happy we get to go on this learning adventure together. I have been teaching at Foothill Knolls since 1997 and I can't imagine working anywhere else. I love our TK through eight school and the opportunities our students get to experience a true learning community.

I attended the University of La Verne where I earned my Bachelor's in Psychology and a Masters in Education. Long before that, I too attended a small TK-8 school where I was encouraged and taught to experience learning in a PBL situation. Even that long ago, I felt driven to learn through PBL (project-based learning).

I love working at our school and I was so excited to be part of our transition to a STEM focus and PBL learning environment. Working with students to learn and bring their learning to life in "real world" situations is the absolute best!

In addition, social emotional learning (SEL) is my jam. Working with students to express themselves and be empathetic is of the utmost importance to me. We have a lot of class meetings and opportunities to grow as well rounded students.

Most recently, I've been lucky enough to work as TOSA and Administrator Designee for Summer Bridge here at Foothill Knolls. In the Fall, 2022 I will be working with students at the University of LaVerne as an adjunct professor in their Teacher Credential Education Program. Life long learning is what it's all about.

Adventuring with my family is my favorite thing to do. My husband and I have two children (ages 20 and 15). We enjoy concerts, movies, classic cars, and trying out restaurant recommendations from my students.

Here's to a wonderful year of learning in fifth grade. By working together, we can have an amazing year. Let's go!

Follow us on Social Media

Instagram: @stemsmarties-in5th

 

Soto Family Photo

Welcome to 5th Grade!

kcushman@upland.k12.ca.us

Hello families! My name is Miss Cushman and I teach 5th grade this year at FK. Last year was my first year teaching kindergarten and I have now taught all grade levels kindergarten through 6th grade. I have been teaching in Upland for 20 years now! This is my 2nd year at Foothill Knolls and I love our TK-8 school. I enjoy getting to know my students and their families because we are a community here.

I grew up in Upland and attended Sierra Vista, Upland Junior High, and Upland High School. I received my Bachelor of Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona and I received my masters in Education Leadership and Policies from the University of Texas of Arlington.

In my spare time, I enjoy playing soccer, hanging out with family and friends, attending sports events, and going to the beach. Thank you for your support throughout the year.

Together we are a team for your child's success. I look forward to a wonderful year in 5th grade.