Hello! My name is Karen Zwolak and I will be your child’s first grade teacher! I previously taught second grade at Discovery for three years, and this will be my fifth year teaching first grade. I am originally from Detroit, Michigan, but have resided in Ashburn, Virginia for 20 years.

 

I received my Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Special Education from James Madison University. Go Dukes! After taking some time off, I graduated with my Masters in Early Childhood Education from Arizona State University in December 2015. I was fortunate enough to complete my degree online; it was certainly a challenge, but it allowed me to work as a full-time nanny while completing my degree!

 

In my spare time, I love to read, bake, watch my favorite sports teams (GO BLUE!), travel when I can, and spend time with my family and friends. 

 

I am very excited to be given the opportunity to teach your children. While it is imperative they learn academics this year, it is most important I teach your children how to treat others, advocate and believe in themselves, and problem solve. I try to show students how to find humor in things and to look at the big picture when faced with a challenge. I look forward to working with and learning from them throughout the school year.