First Grade - Mrs. Nadine Kannel         Hello!  I’m Nadine Kannel, and I am the first grade teacher at St. Joseph School.  I grew up in Chicago, Illinois with my family.  After sixth grade, my parents moved our family to Merrill, Wisconsin where I graduated from high school.  I attended UW-Eau Claire with elementary education as my major and mathematics as my minor.  After receiving my Bachelor of Science degree, I began my teaching career at St. John the Baptist Catholic School in Plum City, Wisconsin in January of 1988. While in Plum City, I met my husband, Daniel.  We were married in June of 1991.  We have three children – Brandon (13), Shelby (12), and Jazmin (10).  Having been able to substitute teach at St. Joe’s this past winter was very rewarding!  I am excited to be here in the first grade classroom full time!  First grade is an experience for children to learn and grow academically, socially, and spiritually.  I am dedicated to help each child reach his/her potential.  In the positive learning environment that is created in the classroom, the students will develop a sense of respect for themselves as well as for others.   My philosophy is to instill in students Christian values which are incorporated throughout the curriculum.  The children will engage themselves in numerous activities to broaden their intellect.  I feel very fortunate to play such an important role in so many lives!