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Ms. Shari Zirkle
Email: szirkle@wcpss.net
I am excited to teach ESL (English as a Second Language) and to be a part of the Vandora Springs Family! I began my teaching career in Florida where I received my BA in elementary education and certification in ESL from Florida Atlantic University. I’ve taught 2nd - 4th grade, intervention, and ESL (English as a Second Language) for over 25 years. I was born in Queens, New York and grew up in Miami, FL, and my husband and I moved to NC in 2004. We have one amazing son, and a chihuahua named Cali.
Teaching multilingual students is a privilege and a joy! I am passionate about building relationships and advocating for my students and their families, and I look forward to celebrating our students' diverse backgrounds and cultures.
I enjoy being outdoors, gardening, reading, spending time with my family, and traveling. My family recently went on a mission trip to Guatemala, and we hope to go again soon!
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Ms. Amanda Helder
Email: ahelder@wcpss.net
Hey Eagle families!I am excited to be working with your English language learners this school year! Prior to working in ESL, I spent two years teaching 1st grade at Vandora Springs until I became a mom at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. Now, I am thankful to be able to transition into a part-time ESL position and I look forward to working with your students.I graduated from UNC Charlotte in 2020 with a degree in Elementary Education and Special Education General Curriculum. Apart from teaching 1st grade at VSE, I have also taught special education at Dunn Middle School in Harnett County. As a teacher, my goal is to build relationships with my students while fostering a love for learning. When I'm not teaching, I love to spend time with my husband, Ryan and our new son, Warren.I can’t wait to see what we learn together this year!