This week we highlight the people who make Prairie so special –– our teachers.

Sarah Barbian

Reading Specialist
COMPASS Team member
MS/US French

The next Prairie educator we celebrate as part of Thank A Teacher week is Sarah Barbian. Over her 12-year tenure at Prairie, Ms. Barbian has shared her love of language and culture with students in various roles. In addition to teaching French, she spends much of her time working with students on their reading skills as a member of the school’s multi-disciplinary COMPASS team.

How is TPS different from other schools?
“I have never known any other school to embrace professional development as much as Prairie. I have always considered myself a student, I want to be the absolute best I can be for my students. At Prairie, my skills have grown over time, and my roles have evolved to reflect my new learning.”

What is your role as part of the COMPASS team? 
“I collaborate with Prairie’s teachers about students’ reading skills, teach full reading classes in 5th grade, and oversee our Wilson Reading classes at all levels. Assessment is also part of my role — in addition to checking in on basic literacy skills throughout the year, I also do individualized assessments on any student’s reading and spelling skills when teachers and parents are looking for more information.”

What is something you look forward to every year at TPS?
“I really look forward to seeing my students every day and helping them reach their goals. One of my favorite things to do is reflect on how much progress we have made — I love seeing them beam with pride.”

Fun fact: Something students might not know about Ms. Barbian…
“I have a hedgehog named Colette!”

 

Each day during National Teacher Appreciation Week (May 7th-11th) we will be telling the stories of our teachers, coaches, advisors, and faculty members. You can help Prairie’s teachers continue to progress by making a gift in support of Faculty Development at The Prairie School.

Did You Know: Prairie’s COMPASS Program is composed of learning specialists and academic support teachers dedicated to working with students and families to identify learning strengths and challenges, encourage self-advocacy, and ensure overall success.