Lyndsey Popham

I have a Masters in Elementary Education K-5 and a Bachelor of Science in Human and Health Promotion/Exercise Science from the University of Louisville. I have been teaching at Virginia Chance School since 2009. I am blessed to teach alongside an inspiring team of teachers at the kindergarten level.

 

I feel blessed that I teach at a school that promotes a progressive approach and implements a researched-based practice that is appropriate for all children. As a believer in progressive education, I appreciate the support I receive from VCS administrators and the ongoing PD opportunities that are offered each year. I value taking advantage of current research and resources available to support my teaching in the classroom.

 

As part of our learning environment, I love that we allow time and space for self-directed learning and inquiry throughout the day, where young learners share their thinking and exercise their voices. Observing, listening, questioning, and looking at student work helps guide our instruction and experiences in meaningful and purposeful ways. Our school also honors play as part of learning. Research tells us how play allows children to practice prosocial behaviors, ignite their imagination and creativity, explore the world around them, and engage in reasoning. I, along with a past K/1 team, had the opportunity to author a chapter in an educational resource called The Curious Classroom, by Harvey “Smokey” Daniels that shares how we value play at our school. https://www.chanceschool.org/apps/pages/Soft-Start

 

Virginia Chance School is a uniquely engaging school for children. It is also an inspiring place for educators to continue to grow and refine their practice in an environment that is current and honors what is developmentally appropriate for all children. I feel grateful to be a part of this remarkable school.

 

When I am not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family, watching movies, playing games, exploring new restaurants, and traveling as much as I can. I am a mother to two beautiful children who experienced the Chance program from 2's through 5th grade. It is beautiful the see the skill set they acquired from their beginnings at Chance School and how they utilize these skills every day. Being a mom has made me a confident, caring, understanding, patient, and all-around better teacher!