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The Parents’ Guide to Elementary School

Hi, I’m Natalie, your guide through the school system, and your partner in navigating it with confidence.

Support your child’s learning journey with real answers, expert insights, and approachable advice and strategies from someone who fosters academic growth and partnerships. That’s where I come in.

I offer clarity, context, and conversation through keynote speaking and workshops for schools, businesses, and parent groups.

Follow on Instagram, watch videos, and subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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I came in with little knowledge and feel more knowledgeable with immediate next steps- thank you!

Megan

I learned a lot about the magnet zones and its impact on applications. I had no idea about tracks. I walked away with a ton of new information to choose my child’s school.

Amanda

The Primary Focus Workshop is extremely informative. Natalie is engaging and answered all the questions we had. I highly recommend this workshop anyone trying to navigate schools in Charlotte.

Katy

We Cover Topics You’re Actually Worried About

Jan 23
If you hate writing emails, this is for you

If you hate writing emails, this is for you

Have you ever had to write a difficult email to your child's teacher? Did it fill you with anxiety? I've got three tips for you to make writing that email go a lot smoother.
2 min read
Jan 20
Vlog: I Quit Teaching 2 Year Update

Vlog: I Quit Teaching 2 Year Update

2 years ago this week I decided to resign from teaching. In that time I've had my work stolen, was mentored by Chelsea Fagan, and completely lost and found myself. I know myself better now than I ever thought I would, but only because of the challenges I faced the past two years.
20 min read
Jan 16
It's been 2 years since I quit...

It's been 2 years since I quit...

I'm taking a step away from my typical content to get a little personal today. Last week marked 2 years since I decided to resign from teaching. I'm sharing 3 Lessons I've Learned Since I Quit Teaching.
2 min read
Jan 09
Subtle Hints in Your Child's Report Card

Subtle Hints in Your Child's Report Card

There's a specific style teachers use to write report cards, but you only know if you know. Learn how teachers write report card comments to look for subtle clues if your child is succeeding or...not
3 min read
Jan 06
Ask an Elementary School Teacher: January Q&A with Primary Focus

Ask an Elementary School Teacher: January Q&A with Primary Focus

Gain insights from an experienced teacher in the January Q&A with Primary Focus. Learn strategies to support students with disabilities, interpret teacher feedback, and understand the challenges educators face. Empower your child's educational journey with expert advice.
2 min read
Dec 21
Last minute gifts for 6 year olds

Last minute gifts for 6 year olds

Need a last minute gift for a 6 year old? This list has budget friendly gifts that children this age will actually want.
2 min read
Dec 21
Last minute gifts for 5 year olds

Last minute gifts for 5 year olds

Need a last minute gift for a 5 year old? This list has budget friendly gifts that children this age will actually want.
2 min read
Dec 19
🍾 5 things I'm leaving behind in 2023

🍾 5 things I'm leaving behind in 2023

In one of the most hectic times of year, I just want to say thank you for opening this newsletter. I really appreciate your support. 🩷 This will be my last newsletter of 2023, so I'm going to reflect a bit here...
2 min read
Dec 16
Ask an Elementary School Teacher: December Q&A with Primary Focus

Ask an Elementary School Teacher: December Q&A with Primary Focus

In the December Q&A with Primary Focus, get expert tips on managing holiday transitions, supporting academic growth, addressing behavioral challenges, and navigating school choice deadlines in Charlotte. Perfect for parents in CMS, private, and magnet school communities.
2 min read
Dec 12
Holiday Teacher Gift Guide for any budget $0-100 | Cute Christmas cards, Luxury gifts, DIY Ornaments

Holiday Teacher Gift Guide for any budget $0-100 | Cute Christmas cards, Luxury gifts, DIY Ornaments

Whether your budget is $0 or $100, Natalie has a great holiday gift for your child’s teacher or favorite school employee. From cute DIY ornament ideas to luxury gifts, there is something your child’s teacher will love.
11 min read
Dec 12
🧠 🥶 Brain Freeze! Simple ways to prevent learning loss over winter break

🧠 🥶 Brain Freeze! Simple ways to prevent learning loss over winter break

Learning loss happens to all children during long breaks from school. While summer break is the famous one, we also see it during winter breaks (or really anything 2+ weeks long). The good news is, it's a really low commitment to prevent it.
2 min read
Dec 05
📓 What are reading behaviors?

📓 What are reading behaviors?

The very first time a kindergarten teacher meets a child, they can learn a million things just by handing their student a book... They are looking to see if your child has reading behaviors.
2 min read

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