Hi, I’m Mrs. Babich and I teach
social studies and sometimes language arts. I have been a teacher in Birmingham
Public Schools for many years, but I am always open and willing to try new
things when it comes to teaching and learning in my classroom. My hobbies
include traveling around the world, yoga, hiking with my husband and our
lab-mix “Jake” and reading – especially historical fiction. As for advice, I
expect students in my classroom to be honest and “own” their learning by
taking charge of themselves through hard work, honesty and a positive attitude.
I love to have students work on projects and am interested in hearing your
ideas for making our classroom, and sixth grade, the best it can be!
When it comes to advice, I will
pass along the two quotes that have helped me become the person I am today. I
hope you will think of these when life gets tough or when you see a “wrong”
that needs to be “righted”. 1) “When life gives you lemons; make
lemonade!” and 2) “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
I can’t wait to meet my new students in the fall. Even if you don’t
have me for a teacher, stop by and say hello. I am always willing to help out
in any way I can!
Suggested Supplies:
·
One two-pocket
folder
·
A spiral notebook
·
A flash-drive
(can be used for other classes)
·
Pencils, pens,
red checking-pen
·
Hand-held pencil
sharpener
Optional but “nice to have”
suggested supplies:
·
Colored pencils,
crayons or markers
·
Glue stick
Mr. Brooks Math
My name is Mr. Brooks and I am proud to be a math teacher
here at Berkshire. Our school is such a
great place to teach and learn. I am looking forward to another great school
year beginning in the fall. As a sixth
grader, if you ever need any help with any thing at all...please do not ask
me. I"M KIDDING! Please come ask me for help with whatever you
need (lockers, directions, school work, etc.).
I look forward to meeting all of the incoming sixth graders in
September!
Mr. Bruyneel Science My name is Mr. Bruyneel and I currently teach 6th Grade Science to 139 fantastic students at Berkshire Middle School.I am looking forward to meeting new faces to teach!
Ms. Eggert Math
Welcome 6th Graders!
I am Ms. Eggert. I have 2
cats named Baxter and Chloe. I love to be active. After school, you
can find me at CrossFit, Yoga or Pilates. You might also see me running
or riding my bike. In the winter, you may find me skiing at Boyne
Mountain or snowshoeing nearby. In the past, I’ve participated in
triathlons (swim-bike-run) and half marathons. I challenge you to run in
the Berkshire 5K in May! I spent the summer tutoring at the Baldwin
Library and paddling on my new SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard). I also love to
travel. I hiked and camped around Lake Superior this summer with Ms.
Bailey. If you went to West Maple, you might know her.
I taught elementary school for
13 years before taking the leap to middle school. Believe me, I was
nervous! Now, I love being a part of the Berkshire staff! Over the
past 2 years, I have taught 6th and 7th grade math.
My advice is to get involved in your school;
participate in sports, clubs, musicals, and activities. Get to know as
many new people as you can. Always give 100% and expect the best out of
yourself! Always do your homework! Ask for help if you need it!
Mr. Fisher Language Arts
"At the beginning of my 18th year teaching language
arts at Berkshire, the thrill of a new school year is both familiar and unique.
Each year has its own flavor as different personalities come together. This is where I want to be! Berkshire is a community that I love, and it
is at its best when we remember that we are part of something bigger than
ourselves. When we put others first,
when we respect our surroundings, when we do what is expected of us even though
no one is watching: This is how we create a place where each of us can feel at
home. This is how we make Berkshire the place that I brag about."
Ms. Hammoud ESL Hello, my name is Ms. Hammoud
and I teach 6th-8th grade ESL at Berkshire. This past
year I had the pleasure of teaching students from 16 different countries. I’m
looking forward to another exciting year at Berkshire. I teach three different
levels of ESL classes. ESL students also have the option of taking tutorial
with Mrs. Lo. From the ESL department, Mrs. Lo and I welcome you and are
excited about sharing a wonderful journey with you for the upcoming year.
Mr. Jackson Language Arts
“Welcome to Berkshire incoming 6th
graders! The most important thing you need to know about Berkshire is
that this year will be extremely fun. Berkshire is the best middle school
in Michigan! You will have more control over your learning and projects
that far exceed anything you completed in elementary school……but to quote Uncle
Ben from Spiderman..With great power, comes great responsibility. Thus,
you must also leave your elementary behaviors in elementary school and become
one of Berkshire’s Best. Trust me, you will enjoy your experience if you
accept this challenge”
Mr. Jackson Band He will be retired next year. Future band teacher to be decided.
Ms. Lincoln P.E. I have three awesome kids
and a passion for fitness. I am a Spartan graduate who loves Michigan
State basketball. My favorite sports are basketball and soccer and I love
to read (in my very rare, spare time). I love to educate through
character. Berkshire is an amazing place full of opportunities, but they
must be sought out. Words of wisdom: Don’t ever be afraid to ask
for help J
Mr. Phillips Science
I have been married for 41 years, and have two grown
daughters, a son-in-law, and two granddaughters! Besides Mrs.
Phillips, beagles Patch and Wait-a-Bit, and Feathers the
cockatiel share my home.
As the oldest of eight children with five brothers and two sisters, I
became a teacher of others at an early age! My students are numbered in
the thousands, and have included persons of all ages. My teachings have
taken place on the tops of mountains, at the bottoms of canyons, in the depths of
caves, in northern winter woods, along wilderness whitewater rivers, on
sandy freshwater beaches, and along rocky ocean shores.
In addition to being a middle school science teacher, I have also been an
elementary school teacher, a college teacher, a Sunday school and Bible
class teacher, a substitute teacher, a school custodian, a geologist, a
volunteer fireman, a carpenter's assistant, a laborer, a short-order breakfast
cook, an automotive assembly line worker, a dishwasher, a co-owner of a charter
fishing boat and sporting goods business, an archival/genealogical researcher,
a sod farmer, a service station mechanic, and unemployed.
I enjoy the outdoors, especially canoeing, hunting, snow shoeing, making
firewood, camping, and fishing. I also read, journal, write poetry,
research family history, brew beer, make jam, and fashion canoe poles,
walking sticks, and canes.
Ms. Sensenig Media Specialist
Hi there! I am Mrs. Sensenig and I am the Media Specialist here at Berkshire. This coming school year will be my 5th year at Berkshire and I am looking forward to another exciting year of working with Berkshire students. The Berkshire media center is an exciting, busy place! I try to provide a variety of programs for students to be involved in throughout the year as well as constantly adding new materials to our collection that students just can’t wait to get their hands on! I love working with middle school students and getting to know them personally. If you are looking for a great place to hang out, come and visit me in the Berkshire Media Den(media center)! Go Wildcats!
Ms. Straub Language Arts Have a great summer! See you next fall!
Mr. Shawver Orchestra Have a great summer! See you next fall!
Mr. Stearns Social Studies Have a great summer! See you next fall!
Ms. Tucker Math Have a great summer! See you next fall!
Mr. Baldridge Eng. Tech Have a great summer! See you next fall!
Ms. Yaldo Math Have a great summer! See you next fall!
Ms. Johnston Skills for Living Have a great summer! See you next fall!
Ms. Rodriguez Spanish Have a great summer! See you next fall!
Ms. Mason Japanese Have a great summer! See you next fall!
Mr. Orlando Art Have a great summer! See you next fall!
Ms. Rivera Spanish text
Ms. Laginess French
Bienvenue! Welcome to Berkshire.
I am Mlle Laginess (soon to be Mme Takenaga) and have been teaching French at
Berkshire for 6 years. I have always loved all things French and have visited
France many times because there is so much to see and do in one of the most
beautiful countries in the world. I will be happy to share my experiences with
you! Berkshire is such a fun place to learn and grow. The students participate
in so many exciting activities and all of the teachers here are so creative and
enthusiastic. I am sure you will love your middle school experience and bonne
chance!