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Elementary Campus

Joy in Learning. Joy in Growing.

Grade 2

Grade 2 – Joy in Exploration

Welcome to 2nd Grade at PACT! This year is filled with joyful exploration, where students delve deeper into the world around them, form friendships, and boost their academic confidence.

 

classroom with students and police

Joyful Moments

2nd graders participate in engaging field trips throughout the year to deepen their understanding of social studies and science topics. A popular trip for students and volunteers is the maple syrup program at Eastman Nature Center! We host special celebrations of learning throughout the year and present classroom character awards at the end of the school year to recognize the growth and unique qualities of each 2nd-grade student.

 

teacher listening and teaching

What to Expect

Each of our 2nd-grade classrooms starts with a morning meeting to build a caring community of learners and establish classroom expectations. During this time, we listen to and share with one another, preview the day, and help students feel encouraged for all the learning ahead! 2nd graders will engage in Math, ELA, Unit Studies, and Character education each day through hands-on activities, read-alouds, projects, and whole-group and small-group lessons. We also have a rotation of Music, Art, PE, and Media/Library classes each week. Weekly newsletter emails are sent home from each classroom to provide an overview of the week’s learning, reminders of upcoming events, and important updates. Second graders will also write in a planner each day, allowing families to check in and gain insight into their day in second grade.

 

student looking at window

Learning Milestones

Second graders have the opportunity to enjoy engaging field trips throughout the year, further exploring our social studies and science topics. A favorite trip for students and volunteers is the maple syrup program at Eastman Nature Center! We host special celebrations of learning throughout the year and present classroom character awards in the final days to honor each student's growth and unique qualities in 2nd grade.

parents helping kids with homework

Joy at Home: Tips for Families

Encourage curiosity by going on nature walks, asking “why” questions, and helping your child journal about their discoveries.

Meet the Teachers

  • Miranda Barthel 
    Grade 2 Teacher

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    EXPERIENCE

    • Grade 2 Teacher, PACT Charter School
    • Grade 4 Teacher, PACT Charter School
    • Preschool Teacher, Little Explorers Otsego

     

    EDUCATION

    • M.A. Elementary Education and Teaching, University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
    • B.S. Elementary Education and Teaching (K-6), University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

     

  • Elise Haus
    Grade 2 Teacher

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    EXPERIENCE

    • Grade 2 teacher, PACT Charter School (2023-present)
    • Grade 4 teacher, PACT Charter School (2022-2023)

    EDUCATION

    • B.A., Elementary Education with a minor in Special Education, University of North Dakota

     

  • Kaia Kennedy

    Grade 2 Teacher
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    EXPERIENCE

    • Grade 2 Teacher, PACT Charter School (2025 – present)
    • Substitute Teacher, Anoka-Hennepin School District
    • Student Teacher, Second Grade, Crooked Lake Elementary School


    EDUCATION

    • B.A. Elementary Education (K–6), Bethel University
  • Taylor Perrier
    Grade 2 Teacher

    Email



    PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

    • Grade 2 Teacher, PACT Charter School (2024-present)
    • Preschool Teacher (2021-2024)

    EDUCATION

    • B.S. Elementary Education, Bemidji State University
  • Brooke Thoennes
    Grade 2 Teacher

    Email


    Experience

    • Grade 2 Teacher, PACT Charter School (2021-present)

     

    Education 

    • B.S. Early Childhood Education, University of Northwestern – St. Paul