Teacher Bio
Mrs. Cheryl Ernst (Miss Cheryl)
I have been at Timber Ridge since 1996. After many years as a local business owner
I decided to change my career once my daughter entered elementary school. I started
my career at Timber Ridge as a paraprofessional for special needs children for two
years. I am entering my 16th year at the school and my 14th year as a special needs
preschool teacher. During this time I have taught children with a variety of
disabilities ranging from mild to profound. I found teaching to be one of the most
rewarding and challenging professions that I have pursued.
Other background about myself:
I am married to a wonderful man who occasionally visits our class. I have one awesome daughter
in college. I own 2 rescue dogs who occasionally visit with my husband.
I am privileged to be able to teach a wonderful class with extremely supportive parents
and have a fabulous paraprofessional- Ginger.
My hobbies include reading, dancing, playing tennis, working out and shopping.
My Philosophy
I incorporate the best teaching practices into my curriculum that result in the most
positive outcomes for each student. I believe that all children (and adults) learn by doing
and being involved. This is why play and social skills are so important for young
children, especially for children with special needs. Because children learn in
different ways and at different rates, individualized and differentiated instruction is
not only necessary but essential. I constantly try new teaching strategies to discover
the best ones for each student and their learning styles.
I also believe that parental involvement is an essentail part of children's learning. I provide ways for
parents to be involved. When we are all involved and working together children can and will learn
to their highest capacity.
Mission For The Class
To promote all children to become life long learners and be as successful as possible
within school, home, and community environments.
