John A Walsh Math and Science Academy

Building Foundations for Higher Education

2015 South Peoria Street, Chicago, Illinois 60608-3432
Telephone 773.534-7950 -- Facsimile 773-534-7168

Principal Martin Ryczek

mryczek@cps.edu

Dear Hiring Committee,

I had the pleasure of having Salena Sikand as a teacher intern from Michigan State University. She was
my intern while teaching a primary grade classroom at John A. Walsh Elementary in the school year
2017-18.

Ms. Sikand’s multiple skills would be an asset to any organization. She has a balance of effective
teaching methods and strong organizational skills. Her dedication and passion for students was
evident in everyday routines. She was very professional at all times in her interactions with staff,
students, and parents. Ms. Sikand’s excellent communication skills were noticeable when addressing
parents’ after school about concerns regarding their children or simply acknowledge parents by
greeting them when they were picking up the children. During her lead teaching she always
consistently prepared thoroughly for the lessons she was going to give and was mindful of
differentiating the lessons to reach all the diverse learners in the class. She also took into account the
different students’ backgrounds when interacting, and planning certain celebrations during the school
year. Ms. Sikand was supportive to each student as an individual when challenging behavior issues
arose. She had strong classroom management skills yet was empathetic and supportive to the
student’s particular situation. Another example of Ms. Sikand’s multiple skills was demonstrated when
she had great success with a group of 3 rd grade students that she was assigned to teach Math skills.
The students were having difficulties learning multiplication timetables when she started with them.
She was consistent and applied different strategies. She didn’t give up or go on until she was sure they
knew their multiplication tables. These examples are only a few of Ms. Sikand’s many skills. I strongly
recommend Ms. Sikand because I am confident that she would be an outstanding addition to your
school organization.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need additional information.

Best Regards,

Mrs. M. Aguilar
Bilingual Primary teacher
mtaguilar@cps.edu
(815)272-041