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Teaching kindergarten at Hawthorne School has been my calling since 1997!  (I began as Ms. Lindsay, and became Mrs. Cress in 2018.)  I teach kids how to go to school -- and while I'm at it...I teach them how to read, think like scientists, love math, make friends, be kind... I love seeing that lightbulb ignite when five and six year olds realize they can READ!  Building an educational foundation, and instilling a love of learning is what it's all about.

 

I strive to form a true partnership with my students' families.  Mutual respect, good communication, and trust are key.  My own children attended Hawthorne from kindergarten through eighth grade, and are Beverly Hills H.S. graduates. I am your resource for everything Hawthorne. Volunteering on PTA committees is a great way to show your kids that their education is important to your family.

 

My undergraduate degree is a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts, along with a minor degree in Dance, from Adelphi University, New York. (I was born and raised in Manhattan.)  Another passion, I directed and choreographed Hawthorne's Middle School Musical Theatre productions for 18 years.  I earned my Multiple Subject teaching credential from Pepperdine University, with an emphasis in technology. I also attended New York University, UCLA, Santa Monica College, Cal State Northridge, and University of San Diego.