Grade 5

Mrs. Gaastra 

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I began my career teaching for the San Bernardino City School District where I taught kindergarten and 1st grade for 8 years before moving to the High Desert in 2000. I taught kindergarten at Lewis Elementary for two years. After a few years of commuting from my home in Newberry Springs, I transferred to Yermo School to teach a 4th/5th grade combo class for one year before moving to 7th grade for nine years. Then I taught 1st grade for 3 years at Yermo. When I came to NSES I taught 2nd grade for 3 years. Currently I am enjoying a 5 minute commute to work at Newberry Elementary School and love teaching 5th grade.

I have been happily married to my husband Jeff for almost 40 years. My son Kevin attended Yermo School and Silver Valley High School. He graduated from University of California, Berkeley in the summer of 2016. In my spare time I enjoy cooking, baking, canning, quilting, cross-stitching, gardening, and reading. I also enjoy caring for and walking my 2 German Shepherd dogs.


Mrs. Petruncio

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Hello! My name is Melissa Petruncio, and I am excited to be co-teaching 5th grade this year at Newberry Springs Elementary alongside my mentor teacher Mrs. Gaastra. I grew up in Newberry Springs, so it is special to be able to teach in my hometown. I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Education through Alder GSE, and I am passionate about creating a supportive and engaging learning environment for all our students. Last year, I worked as a categorical aide at NSES and before that I had the privilege of serving as the director of the afterschool program. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our five children. I also love crafting, gardening, baking, reading, and crocheting. I am so grateful to be part of this wonderful school community and look forward to a fantastic year of learning and growth together!