3rd Grade

I'm Ms. Kushi, and I'm really excited to be your 3rd-grade teacher this year. This will be my 8th year teaching 3rd grade at STEAM and my 10th year teaching. I graduated from The University of Michigan with my Bachelor's degree and later earned my Master's in Elementary Education. I'm a big fan of outdoor activities like going for walks and kayaking. I also enjoy exploring local shops and spending time with my cat, Shimmy. As we start this new school year, it's completely normal to have different emotions about transitioning back to school. But together, we'll create a welcoming and supportive classroom environment where we can learn and grow.

In the first few weeks of school, we'll work together to decide how our classroom should look and feel. We'll establish our daily routines and practice getting to know both our old friends and some new ones. I'm really looking forward to meeting each and every one of you. Let's make this school year a fantastic journey of learning and discovery!

It is so exciting to be your child’s third-grade teacher! I’m looking forward to a school year filled with exploration, a sense of community, social and emotional growth, and academic progress. I hope to build a warm class environment where students feel safe, noticed, calm, and curious.

My name is Caroline Semrau (sim-row). I grew up in Texas and have lived in Ann Arbor since 2002. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time outdoors, hanging out with my family and friends, dancing, singing, and laughing! I have two sons so I definitely get the parent perspective! My first son graduated from Community High School and is a student at Oberlin College. My younger son graduated from A2 STEAM in the spring of 2025. 

I have been teaching at A2 STEAM since 2016. I’ve taught in Los Angeles Unified, Dexter Community Schools, and Whitmore Lake Public Schools. In my teaching career, I’ve had the opportunity to teach preschool, kindergarten, first grade, fifth grade, and sixth grade. I continue to embrace new challenges and learn strategies to improve my teaching. I value the importance of play in young children, keeping equity at the forefront, and maintaining a strong school-home partnership.

Looking forward to a wonderful school year with you all.

A Warm Hello!

My name is Allie Waanders, my students call me Ms. Waanders (pronounced Von-der-z). I have a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in reading and literacy. Over the past fourteen years, I have worked either as a classroom teacher or as a reading intervention specialist in K-5 school settings. This year, I have the continued privilege of working with third-grade students as they learn and grow.

While your child is in my care, I will be attentive to their individual needs, interests, and learning style. Personal relationships and honest communication will be at the center of our work together. To that end, I’d like to establish a strong partnership with you from the start.