Welcome.  Let me introduce myself.  I am Shirley Ahalt, a second grade teacher at Urbana Elementary School.  I am currently in my 24th year teaching at this great school!  I have been fortunate to have taught kindergarten, first and second grade where my younger brother and sisters attended many years ago and later my own two daughters.

Before coming to FCPS I taught preschool while pursuing my education.  I was a teacher with the Frederick Co. Headstart Program for nine years.  I was offered a job to join the teaching team of the Frederick Co. Public School System, which I excitedly accepted about 24 years ago.  Since being here I have participated on several school committees.  I am currently Team Leader, a participate on the  school's Language Arts and Multiculutural committes.Also I look foreward to continuing to be  a mentor to college interns pursuing a career in education. I involve myself in me to me other activities of interest that help with personal and educational growth.

In the classroom it is important for me to provide a fun, warm and safe learning environment.  I feel if children don't feel good about themselves and comfortable with their surroundings, they cannot achieve their full potential academically and socially in the school or in any environment.

I began my formal educational training at Frederick Community College.  During this time I took classes at the University of MD.  I completed my education at Hood College with a Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood.  Later I did graduate studies at Hood and McDaniel College (formally Western MD).

I am very involved enjoying all aspects of grandparent hood! My husband and I still reside in the lovely Urbana area. I enjoy traveling in and out of the United States. I have been fortunate to have been to many places, traveling by plane and cruising. Some of my favorite places visited include areas of Europe, Alaska, California, Bermuda and the Bahamas. One of my most relaxing things to do is read.

I can be best reached by calling the school and leaving a voicemail message.  I check it daily at planning time and later after school.  Also, you may e-mail me.  For those parents who have students currently in my class, you may write a note in your child's Homework Book.  Whatever you choose as a means of communication I realize how important the connection is between Home and School and I will get back to you as soon as possible.