Meet Mrs. Gonzalez

Hello! My name is Valerie Gonzalez and this is my 5th year teaching. This is my third year teaching 1st grade at Melrose Elementary.  I also taught two years at Interlachen Elementary.

I was born in Palatka, Florida, and have lived in Interlachen my whole life.  My mom is also a teacher, which is what inspired me to become one. 
I spent many, many, many of my childhood days playing school in my bedroom passing out extra worksheets that my mom would bring home from her school, writing school things on my giant dry erase board, and calling roll from my make believe attendance book. What fun times…. :)

I have been married for 3½ years to my darling husband.  We don’t have any children yet, are expecting our 1st child in the spring.    My child for now is my spoiled rotten black Cocker Spaniel named Kole, whom I love dearly. 

When I am not teaching I spend the majority of my time outdoors.  My husband and I do a lot of camping, kayaking, hiking, & saltwater flats fishing.  I have always been a very outdoorsy person, but as I have become older I have really learned to appreciate & value it more. 

Throughout the school year I would like to incorporate various Earth related activities, on which I have done extensive research.  I would greatly appreciate as much support from you and your children as possible.  By integrating these activities into the curriculum, I hope to help instill a love and appreciation for this precious world we live in, that we may often take for granted.

I am super excited about this school year and working with your children.  We have a sweet bunch & I already feel like we have all bonded extremely well.  Please help me to keep the communication lines open throughout the year.  If ever you have questions, concerns, comments, etc., please do not hesitate to contact me. 

Thanks so much for your continued support!