Beauclerc Elementary Teacher of the Week

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- A 6-year-old student at Beauclerc Elementary nominated his teacher for Teacher of the Week because he says, she is fun; he is learning a lot; and he's not sure he ever wants to leave her class.

First graders in Jennifer Arey's class are learning to make words by playing a word game. They cut out letters and then with their teacher's direction, they come up with different words.

"We're doing a 'making words' lesson. I try to do phonics every day and I try to change it up. Different kids learn different ways," said Arey.

One of her students, 6-year old Logan Hardee is doing very well in her class. He's having so much fun he's not sure he wants to move on to 2nd grade next year. "I want to stay here because it's so much fun," said Logan.

He nominated Mrs. Arey for Teacher of the Week with his mom's help. "We've had an amazing year. I couldn't be happier. I can't imagine it being any better," said Logan's mom Erin Hardee.

Hardee says Mrs. Arey has a way of teaching the children so they understand and are always striving to do more and learn more.

"I requested her because every mother I talked to said, 'Ask for Mrs. Arey.' I heard it over and over and I'm so glad I did," said Hardee.

"We're very routine and structured but I try to change it up because it needs to be exciting since they're doing this every day," said Arey.

The kids are getting it. They're learning to make words and be very good students; but that's not exactly why Logan likes his teacher. "I think she's a good teacher because on Fridays, if we're good all week, she eats with us outside for lunch," said Logan.

Logan's mom said her son is thriving in 1st grade and she couldn't have picked a better teacher.

©2009 First Coast News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.