Welcome! This class runs beautifully as it is structured for social success. I'm excited to share this experience with you!

IMPORTANT BEFORE ARRIVING
Your child should practice and be familiar with the following zoom skills before class:

⭐ locate and use the mute & unmute button
⭐ locate and turn off/on camera video
⭐ locate and raise hand icon located in "reactions"
⭐ locate chat box and type text/use emojis

I recommend reviewing this with your child before arriving. It is set up differently depending upon device (laptop/desktop computer, iPad, phone, etc). We use these functions in every class, and it can be overwhelming for kids who are new to Zoom and will impact their overall experience.

CAMERAS
Learners are required to have working cameras in the “on” position. Class is SAFER, more engaging, and more social this way. Please make sure your learner arrives with camera on. Black screens do not promote trust in a group, and I strive to protect everyone in my classroom. 

COURTESY MUTE
We also "courtesy mute" during class. It ensures a quality experience for everyone by eliminating background noise. While some learners have access to dedicated quiet spaces, other learners experience busy households. We mute to limit distractions like doorbells, dogs barking, personal and professional conversations, and other household noise.

HAND RAISING
We raise our hand icon when we want to contribute to the group. In this way, the class does not have to be quieted before someone begins talking and others are not tempted to interrupt the speaker (or me). 

PRIVACY
Remember to keep your private information private. For example, no last names, home cities, emails, phone numbers or gaming handles should be spoken or put into the chat! 

As a reminder, when posting in the classroom remember to follow the Outschool guidelines to be kind, safe, and respectful: https://static.outschool.com/Outschool+Participation+Guidelines.pdf

ABOUT ME 
I am a certified veteran teacher and excel at facilitation of groups. 

I have been a Taylor “fan” since her debut album and the release of “Tim McGraw” way back in the early 2000s, but it was with the 1989 album release, pre-Scooter situation, that I became what’s now known as a “Swiftie.”

I am a lover of music and consider Taylor Swift to be one of the most iconic songwriters of all time. I rank her right up there with the super creative songwriter and legend, Dolly Parton who also, by the way, is a Taylor fan. In my spare time, I enjoy playing guitar and writing songs.

Thank you, and I can't wait to meet you!
Ms. Val
The Swiftie Vault