Portland teacher Amy Wu sees the magic in kindergarteners

Published: Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 9:00 am

Veteran Kindergarten Teacher Finds Magic in the Classroom

Portland Public Schools teacher Amy Wu is celebrating her 28th year teaching kindergarten, with the majority of those years spent at Reiche Elementary. Wu finds the transformation of young students from uncertain youngsters to self-sufficient readers within a school year to be a truly magical experience. She emphasizes that this process, and the successes that come with it, continues to surprise and inspire her each year.

Wu's approach to teaching is inclusive, particularly important at Reiche, where a diverse range of 29 languages are spoken. She believes that in kindergarten, all students are language learners, and her teaching methods are designed to accommodate all students, regardless of their background or abilities.

One parent, Grace Price, shared her positive experience with Wu. Her son, Martin, initially struggled with the transition to kindergarten. However, Wu's calm and humorous approach quickly won him over. Price noted that just the mention of Wu's name was enough to get Martin excited about school. Even when Martin faced new challenges in first grade, Wu's support helped him navigate the transition.

Wu attributes her longevity in the profession to the constant novelty of the kindergarten experience and the opportunities to collaborate with other educators. She has contributed to the district's Wabanaki curriculum, developed a program integrating music into early literacy lessons, and trained new teachers.

BNN's Perspective:

Amy Wu's dedication to her students and her inclusive teaching philosophy are commendable. Her long tenure in the classroom speaks volumes about her passion for education and her ability to connect with young learners. The challenges of teaching in a diverse environment are significant, and Wu's success in fostering a positive learning environment for all students is a testament to her skills and commitment. Her work highlights the importance of experienced educators in shaping the lives of young children.

Keywords: kindergarten, teacher, Portland, education, students, reading, language learners, curriculum, literacy, Reiche Elementary, Amy Wu, teaching methods, early literacy, inclusive education

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