Mr.Berger's "Super Cool"WebPage

Welcome one and all 6th Grade Language Arts - both Standard and Advanced- Reading & Writing.  I have created this website to help keep everyone up-to-date with projects, homework, grades, and general school and classroom information. Please feel free to contact me through my school email or classroom phone if you have any additional questions. This year's theme: What's Your Story & What types of stories do you like to read?  Why? Because everyone has a story to tell and we're influenced by the stories, books, novels, poetry that we read. We will explore "our stories" in a variety of thoughtful and creative ways! Writing creative narratives - both non-fiction and fiction - along with the critical nature of writing to text - using evidence to support a claim and thesis statement; making a point, and focusing on argument as an artform and backing up your claim and argument with evidence while citing the source(s) used. We will read short stories, novels, articles - all of which are connected to our writing.  

This year's theme: What's Your Story? - Because everyone has a story to tell. We will explore "our stories" in a variety of thoughtful and creative ways! Writing creative narratives - both non-fiction and fiction - along with the critical nature of writing to text - using evidence to support a claim and thesis statement; making a point, and focusing on argument as an artform. Both ELA and Advanced are project-based, best-practices learning environments. There is no standing around, or just getting by! There is no magic button or level - you must put in the work and produce to build pride and a solid worth ethic. And...there is no finish line! We are life-long learners! 

Defining Moment in Education:

My 6^th grade teacher, Mr. Merkelson, had a profound influence on me. He was so engaging, and made learning enjoyable. Plus,  his sense of humor made my day.  I cherish that time and have made it a point to bring that “mojo” to my classroom. He also drove the coolest convertible on the planet at the time. 

Core Educational Belief:

Every student can learn and have fun in the process. Students learn in different ways, and writing is a wonderful outlet for self-discovery and life-long applications. My scope in writing and reading is to provide real world applications – preparing young writers for the challenges ahead. Students need to express themselves. They also need to know how to write effectively, strategically and creatively as they progress in their academic careers, and eventually, into their careers.  Learning these skills at a tender age can provide the foundation for future educational success. 

Prior Experience:

For 15 years, I was a television reporter and anchor, along with working in news management. You name the city, I probably lived and reported there. I have some funny stories - ask and I will gladly share them. I have a Bachelor's of Journalism Degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia; a minor in English/Psychology; Highly-Qualified in Language Arts and a teaching certificate from NAU. 

Professional Accomplishments:

This is my 27th year of teaching, and my 20th year at Coronado. I earned my post-degree certificate from Northern Arizona University and earned the status of highly qualified teacher in Language Arts in 2004.  I am a certified coach in girls’ softball, boys and girls basketball, and baseball. I have served as an Athletic Director for four years, including two years here at Coronado. I have taught grades 2, 3, and 5 along with teaching computers/technology -kindergarten through 10th grade. I played basketball my freshman in college at The University of Missouri-Columbia (Go Tigers!) I currently play tennis, hike, and mountain bike in my spare time.  I love music (rock, jazz, R&B, Motown - just about everything) and I will frequently play guitar and sing with my students. I have two children ages 32 and 30 - my daughter earned her Masters degree in Clinical Psychology and Health Related Studies at University of Hawaii and University of Washington and is a licensed therapist and psychologist.   My son  graduated from Nursing School at NAU - earned his BSN - passed his boards & works as the charge nurse and RN at Tucson Medical Center. He also attended ASU and played college ball for two years.   My dog, Chance, is a Siberian Husky. He is rescue - very sweet, smart @ times...I refer to him as my wolf! My first Sibe - Lucky - lived a long life - 15 years, and both Chance and I miss him dearly.  I enjoy debating, reading, writing, comedy, sports, movies, and music. Here’s a secret: I used to do stand-up comedy in college to help pay for my education along with playing in two rock bands. Please don't tell...Shhh :)

Schools Taught:

West Sedona K8 -Sedona, AZ 

Academy of Math and Science -Tucson, AZ 

Coronado K8 School - Tucson, AZ  (current) 

At Coronado K8 School: 

6th Grade Department Chair, 8th Grade Softball/Basketball Head Coach, Former JV Head Softball Coach Ironwood Ridge 2007-2015