Hello!  My name is Kristen Jacobs-Andresen.  The students call me Mrs. J.-A. because of my lengthy name.

Lyndale Community School has been my home (well almost) for the past 23 years.  I began my career teaching grades 6, 7, and 8.  My masters is in the area of Special Education, with an emphasis in Learning Disabilities.  This led me to teach 5th grade special education for the next 4 years.  After the school expanded to include the grades K-3, I was asked to teach 1st grade.  I was in 1st grade for 8 years, (That sounds a bit fishy!)  I then taught 3rd grade for 6 years here at Lyndale. Two years ago year I taught 4th grade. Last year I returned to 1st grade. This year I looped with your children moving to 2nd grade. I have looped with classes twice before, 3rd to 4th, and 4th to 5th. Both times I really felt there were tremendous benefits. I had the knowledge of where the students were academically, socially and emotionally. This allowed me to move forward from the previous year knowing each child. I also formed even stronger realtionships; with the students especially, but also the parents.

I feel that my strengths are in the areas of reading and math. Using a variety of techniques so that all learners are reached is extremely important.  We don't all learn the same way. Making the classroom interesting, but still maintaining routine is also paramount for success.  Parental involvement at home makes a huge difference.  Having your child read is probably the most important thing a parent can do in my opinion.

I have been very fortunate to enjoy all of the grade levels I've had the opportunity to teach. 

Please feel free to contact me at either (612) 668-4000 or at kristen.jacobs-andresen@mpls.k12.mn.us. If you need to contact me during the day the best time is from 1:10 to 1:45.