Hello and welcome to first grade! My name is Hannah Elstner. This is my sixth year teaching and I am so happy to be at Independent! I grew up in Castro Valley and am thankful that I now get to teach in such a wonderful community!  I graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a minor in Education. I received my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master of Arts in Education from Saint Mary’s College of California.  Aside from a passion for teaching, I love reading, hiking, going to the beach, and playing with my cat, Lily.  Each student makes a unique contribution to the classroom community and I am excited to work with and get to know your child as we begin our adventures together in first grade!  

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Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns throughout the school year.  The best way to contact me is through email, but you can always send your child with a note or stop by after school. 

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Email: helstner@cv.k12.ca.us