Ms. Crystal Burgess began teaching first grade at Trinity Lutheran in Fall of 2022 after teaching fourth grade at Trinity for two years (Fall 2015-Spring 2017) and third grade at Trinity for five years (Fall 2017-Spring 2022). She has 27 total years of experience from teaching at various schools and recently earned her Masters of Literacy Degree from Concordia University, in Seward, NE. She also holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Concordia and is a member of the Nebraska State Literacy Association.
Ms. Burgess always strives to keep learning fun and engaging saying, “Whenever I see a student of mine have that ‘lightbulb moment,’ it is precious. I love seeing their smiles everyday.” A special highlight of the first grade year is the celebration of Dr. Seuss week where students enjoy reading Dr. Seuss books and creating related art projects. Ms. Burgess has even been known to dress up as the Cat in the Hat. Ms. Burgess puts a special emphasis on hands-on learning opportunities – including allowing students to use doctor tools when learning about human anatomy; keeping ladybug larva in the classroom; and using math blocks to measure students' stuffed animals.
She works hard to incorporate the Trinity Lutheran Church family into classroom activities including having students hone their skills with congregation reading buddies as well as sharing her work as a Comfort Dog Handler with her students. Ms. Burgess said she wants students to know Jesus is at the center of everything that happens in her classroom. “From teaching to discipline, I want my students to see how I live out my faith everyday.”
Ms. Burgess is an avid follower of Pinterest organization tips and is a fan of Husker volleyball and football. She has two dogs, a 7-year-old black lab/doberman named Wrigley and a silver lab puppy named Bailey. She is a trained Comfort Dog Handler for Trinity Lutheran Church and volunteers in support of the church’s FORWARD ministry, which provides formula, wipes, and diapers to families in need.