Frankenmuth

extra credit opportunities or grace ("do-overs") were offered in the virtual classes. Also, being an all-virtual freshman meant limited opportunity to get to know the high school staff. For Gabby, virtual school became a time of bonding for her and me. She has always excelled in a social environment, so quarantining with JUST her family was especially difficult. The least I could do was try to make learning social and fun while she was doing her part in keeping our family safe. We fell into a routine where she kept track of what needed to get done for the week, and as soon as I had accomplished my work for the day, we would dive into a class or two together. We took turns reading the modules aloud, she tackled the assignments herself, and I did my best to keep a poker face as she completed quizzes and tests. She became a whiz at creating beautiful PowerPoint slides, adding graphics, and choosing the right font to match the slide's aesthetic. Working so closely with her, I was able to see where her learning strengths are and what her obstacles are. Although not trained as a teacher nor having any in-depth understanding of dyslexia, I observed instances where she was clearly "flipping" letters, words, and numbers. This experience allows me to have a more constructive conversation with her future teachers, and together, we will be able to help accommodate her learning idiosyncrasies. Gabby ended up developing a wonderful connection with her Michigan Virtual history teacher. Mrs. Malmquist, was able to engage Gabby through a handful of brief "Discussion Based Assignments" that were completed via phone or Zoom meeting, as well as taking the time to include personal and constructive notes on completed homework assignments. It was heartwarming to see Gabby's interest in History increase as her confidence grew from the virtual teacher interactions. COLEEN HETZNER Cell: 989.295.7718 Office: 989.652.6080 coleenhetznerc21@gmail.com REALTOR R EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY @c21frankenmuth @c21coleenhetzner 11 Natural Grocery, Gifts, & Vitamin Store Visit us on the north end! 975 North Main, Suite A Frankenmuth, MI 48734 989-652-0537 or Toll Free: 877-281-4872 Mon-Sat – 9:00am to 7:00 pm Sun – 11:00am to 6:00pm

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