Judy Ronning-Larson

     Since 2001, I’ve shared my love of learning, reading, and writing with students as a classroom teacher and reading specialist. I’ve taught in three states, four districts, seven buildings, and worked with students from 5th through 12th grade.

     My students have represented a variety of backgrounds from well-resourced to devastating poverty, from suburban to remote and rural. From schools serving predominantly white students to serving 100% native youth, I have been blessed to build relationships with a diverse population of students from a number of wonderful communities.

     I’ve also been fortunate to work with students who are way ahead of being “on track” and well on their way to two-year college degrees to students who are so far “off track” they are in danger of never receiving their diploma.

     What I’ve learned from all of these experiences is that every student wants and needs to feel hopeful about their future. Every parent wants to feel hopeful that their child will have the opportunity to succeed in school and in life. And every, I mean every, teacher wants to feel hopeful that they are making a difference and helping every student progress from point A to point B.

     But teaching is a tough and challenging profession. Burnout is real. New teachers and veteran teachers alike struggle to keep the spark alive day in and day out. I’ve created this website to hopefully provide a spark to you. For new teachers, I hope you find tips, strategies, and resources to help you make it through your first years. For veteran teachers, I hope you find information and resources to help you keep it fresh.

     Over the years I've taught a variety of subjects and coached a variety of sports. Through all of this I have worked to continuously refine and improve my materials so that they continue to engage and spark learning with my students. I’ve never lost the love of play, so fun and laughter play a big role in my classroom.

     I live in a gorgeous mountain community surrounded by nature. I spend most of my spare time in rivers fishing for beautiful trout and hanging out with my fella and our dog, Genser. I hope some of this passion and love I feel in life comes through to you via this website.