Grade 2/3

Joan Greenwald

This is my ninth year teaching at Harwood Elementary School.  For the first eight years, I taught second grade and this year I am going to be teaching third grade! Every year has been exciting and memorable, as I have been lucky to teach such wonderful students.  Harwood Elementary is a great place where I enjoy being surrounded by such enthusiastic students, staff, and parents.

I am married and we have two children, Jessica and Justin. Our daughter is in her senior year at University of Michigan  (Go Jess!). Our son recently graduated high school.

I grew up in Utica and attended high school there. I loved playing softball when I was younger.

Here's a bit more information on my educational background.  I graduated from Wayne State University with a major in science. I completed my Masters in the Art of Teaching in 2003, but I look forward to continuing my education throughout my teaching career. 

I also love listening to most types of music. I believe music is also important in the classroom, and I try to incorporate it into my students' learning.

In my classroom, I promote an atmosphere of safety, trust, and respect. I work hard to build a sense of community among my students, and I emphasize the idea of teamwork. I value cooperation and collaboration both in my classroom and as I work with my peers.  I believe that great things can happen when we work together!  Harwood is a place where I feel like part of a strong community and part of a winning team.

Hi, my name is Sharon Kotarba.  I am an only girl in a family of five.  I grew up in St. Clair Shores and graduated from Lake Shore High, ninth in my class.  I received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Wayne State University and a Masters Degree in Elementary Education from Oakland University.

I started teaching in Warren Consolidated in 1972.  I have been either substitute teaching or full time teaching since then at various schools and in various grades.  This is my 18th year teaching at Harwood.  I became a teacher because I enjoy being with children and watching them develop.

I have been married to a wonderful husband for 39 years and have one child.  My daughter, Janette, is a veterinarian.  I am a proud grandma of two grandsons.

When I have free time, I enjoy sewing, doing puzzles, watching  movies,  shopping and playing with my 2 cats.