Barbara Sue Coss

Hi, my name is Ms Coss and I teach Middle School Humanities at Kalamazoo Country Day School. In college I majored in English and along with my teaching degree I studied French, philosophy and computer information systems. I earned my master's degree in Teaching in the Middle School. I have taught 6th and 7th grade language arts and social studies since 1990. Before that I taught first grade.

I went into teaching as a profession because I love learning and enjoy sharing with students my passion for learning. I enjoy watching them develop better understandings. I believe that students are all unique in the way they see the world and therefore each learns in a different way. By helping students make connections to their previous learning,  enriching the subject and using a variety of teaching methods I keep  students involved, eager and successful. I believe teaching with an emphasis on humanities facilitates connections and enrichment with art, music and cultural awareness. In my class students will learn about global history and geography, literature and story, writing with a purpose and for expression. Our literature is often connected to our world or ancient history studies. Reading group is a favorite part of my school day. I enjoy discussing the concepts presented in novels and sharing ideas and reactions with the students. I really love working with Middle School students. They are enthusiastic, question everything and are ready to learn something new! Each day is an adventure.

This year I have continued my professional development by attending workshops on Photoshop and Technology Resources for teaching World History. What I learned will be useful in further incorporating the laptops and smart board technology that we have in the class room. I also direct the KCD Student Council. Once a week during a lunch meeting Student Council plans special days, service projects and Middle School dances.

 During the summer I love to travel but when at home I am usually reading, in the garden or doing activities with my four grandchildren. I have always been a voracious reader - both fiction and nonfiction. I especially love fantasy, mythology and science fiction - imagining new and different places. Often I am reading young adult literature to share with my students.  I invite you to come and see the creativity and learning in my middle school classroom.