Teaching Philosophy

"I believe that each child enters my classroom with special 'gifts' to share with me.  These are not wrapped packages in their hands, but the special needs which I should acknowledge and nurture as I work with them.  I feel it is my responsibility as an educator to give them the gifts of the maximum achievement of basic skills and concepts, learning activities at the appropriate level and pace, experiences in creative thinking and problem solving, stimulating imagination, developing independence, and of exposure to a variety of fields of study."

Honors and Awards

Wichita Public Schools Distinguished Elementary Teacher
Walnut Valley Leadership Award
Walnut Valley Membership Award
Andover Public Schools Golden Apple Winner
KKI--State Scholarship Winner
Student Council Tobacco Use Grant
District Elementary Nominee to Kansas Teacher of the Year
District Nominee for Kansas Master Teacher
Southwestern Bell Grant Recipient
Who's Who in American Teachers
Andover Advantage Foundation Grant Recipient

What People Say

"Robbie is always happy and extends that contagious lust for life to those around her.  She is friendly to everyone and demonstrates the morals and values of an excellent role model for students and fellow teachers."  Marilyn D. Herr, principal, Andover Intermediate School

"No one can ever replace Mrs. Thomas.  She is the best.  I will never forget her."   Daniel Trousdale, fifth grader, Andover Intermediate School

"She even takes her personal time to see her students (past and present) participate in their varied activities.  Mrs. Thomas teaches with love, which is above and beyond."  Aubrey Bamford, sixth-grade student, Andover Middle School