Meet Ms. Leslie Cooley, one of our incredible 3rd grade teachers at Town & Country! Though this is her first year teaching 3rd grade, she brings over 20 years of experience in education, previously serving as a Title I and literacy interventionist at T&C as well as a Special Education paraprofessional at Carmichael for 10 years.
Ms. Cooley and her colleague, Ms. Thuma, have a unique approach to teaching—splitting subjects to provide the best learning experience for their students. Ms. Cooley teaches math and science, while Ms. Thuma covers ELA, writing, and social studies. Right now, her students are mastering their multiplication tables, and she has created a fun, motivating system where students track their progress every week on charts in her classroom. Those who reach all 12 tables by the end of the year will celebrate with an ice cream party! 🍦
Her students also love her daily math challenges—solving word problems or equations at the end of the day for a chance to earn PBIS points or a small prize. She keeps learning fun and engaging by incorporating hands-on STEM activities every Wednesday, like a challenge to build the longest paper chain using just two sheets of paper, a ruler, and scissors!
Outside the classroom, Ms. Cooley, a Yuma native, enjoys spending time with her two miniature schnauzers, Muffin and Milo. She also loves to travel, with Maine being one of her favorite destinations—she fell in love with the lighthouses, ocean views, and even found a place that makes donuts out of potatoes! 🍩
As the oldest of four siblings, she was inspired by her aunt, a preschool teacher and counselor, to follow her passion for education. She is dedicated, humble, and always striving to inspire her students and fellow educators.
Principal Elson shares, “In every aspect of her role, Ms. Cooley exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding educator: dedication to student success, a collaborative spirit, a positive influence on students and staff, and an evident passion for her profession. Her achievements in her first year are nothing short of extraordinary, and she has proven to be a tremendous asset to the school community.”
We are so lucky to have Ms. Cooley as part of our Town & Country family—her passion, dedication, and love for teaching make a difference every day! 💙👏
