About Tarheelstate Teacher

Hi, I'm so glad you're here!

I'm the teacher behind Tarheelstate Teacher — a fellow educator who has spent years in upper elementary classrooms and knows firsthand how much the right resource can change a lesson (and a student's day).

My Teaching Background

I've taught 4th and 5th grades, specializing in literacy and word study instruction. I've seen the full spectrum — from students who pick up spelling patterns effortlessly to those who need a more deliberate, differentiated approach to make the connections click.

Now that my daughter is in 2nd grade, I'm also especially interested in lower elementary phonics and reading instruction.

That experience is the foundation of everything I create. Every resource in this shop has been planned, tested, and refined in a real classroom — not built from a template. When something didn't work for my students, I revised it until it did.

My Approach to Word Study

I believe spelling instruction should make sense to students, not just feel like memorization. That's why my resources are rooted in differentiated, pattern-based spelling — the same research-backed approach behind Words Their Way.

My Engaged Spelling word study routine is aligned with Words Their Way. Rather than one-size-fits-all word lists, I design materials that meet students where they are developmentally. When students understand why words work the way they do, they carry those patterns into their reading and writing long after the spelling test is over.

My word study resources are built to:

  • Support differentiated small groups within a single classroom
  • Align with the Words Their Way developmental spelling stages
  • Be low-prep and ready to use — because your planning time is precious
  • Engage students with sorts, games, and activities that go beyond rote practice

Beyond Word Study

I'm also passionate about social emotional learning and morning meeting — building the kind of classroom community where students feel safe enough to take academic risks. You'll find SEL-aligned resources here too, because great literacy instruction and a strong classroom culture go hand in hand.

What You Can Expect

Every resource I sell is a digital download delivered instantly — no waiting, no shipping. I create in formats that are easy to print and prep, and I stand behind the quality of everything in this shop.

If you ever have a question about a resource or whether it's the right fit for your students, reach out — I'm happy to help.

Thank you for trusting me with a corner of your classroom. ❤️