TEACHER-S CORNER: THIRD-GRADE TEACHER RANKS READING AT TOP

Reading is a very important skill to third-grade teacher Mary Ann Ostendorf.

The St. Mary Cathedral School teacher said reading is her favorite hobby. She also believes it's the most important skill she can teach her students.

This year Ostendorf, a graduate of Southeast Missouri State University, has incorporated computer usage into her reading curriculum as part of the Reading Renaissance program. Her students read library books and test their comprehension using accelerated reading programs. They receive points for correct answers and receive rewards based on the number of points they accumulate.

"My goal is to help the third-graders to become life-long readers," she said. "Because of the Reading Renaissance program, my students' reading skills are improved and their love of reading is greatly increased."

Because of the type and size of school she works in, Ostendorf can continue to watch her students' progress socially and academically long after they leave her classroom.

"It's gratifying to watch their academic growth, and also see them develop independent behavior as the school year progresses," she said. "I also enjoy watching former students as they grow and develop their different talents.

"I feel very fortunate to be able to teach in a Catholic school where I can share my Christian values with my students."

Like many teachers, Ostendorf became a teacher because she enjoyed working with teachers. A wife and mother of four, she spends much of her free time involved in the activities and interests of her family. Those activities include Vacation Bible School, Boy Scout Day Camp, sporting and outdoor activities.