One of LeeAnna Rabine’s key strengths is her ability to build genuine relationships with students as well as parents. A large percentage of her students at Hawthorne Elementary are economically challenged with many English Language Learners. Yet Rabine sets high expectations for all, even welcoming children with behavioral issues. She designs standards-based lessons, stays abreast of best teaching practices, and uses American Sign Language and vocabulary strategies to develop background knowledge required for learning new concepts. By creating a positive and nurturing environment in her classroom, students feel safe to thrive.
To enhance students’ literary skills, Rabine designed a special pen pal program for her youngsters with high school students in Minnesota. She welcomes parent volunteers and invites community members, from the bank for example, in to mentor students in the classroom. She got a local dentist to donate toothbrushes so that students could brush their teeth after lunch, only to realize that some of the children had never brushed their teeth before. She teaches parents how to read to their children and offers other coaching on parenting skills. If parents miss their child’s conference, Rabine does not give up but visits with them in their vehicle before or after school or on occasion, their home.
Outside of the classroom, she mentors new and veteran teachers. She was a member of the Hawthorne professional development team for 8 years, and continues to participate in the Circle of Courage Behavior team among others. Highly professional, she worked to align the Common Core to kindergarten and first-grade curriculum, and has served on the district curriculum committee. Rabine was videotaped modeling collaboration with colleagues and has recorded a presentation for all kindergarten parents which is shown on district television.
2005-BA Elementary Education/Kindergarten Endorsement (Augustana College)
2010-MA Leadership in Reading (University of Sioux Falls)
