# About Us

> Introduces Homestead Elementary’s mother-son teaching team and detailed biographies of Sheila Byrd and Carsten Byrd, including their education and teaching experience.

The staff at Homestead Elementary comprises a mother-son duo, both certified teachers, with a collective experience of over 30 years in education. Parent Testimonials Bio Details: 146 Sheila Byrd Meet Sheila Byrd, a dedicated educator with a rich tapestry of experience spanning over three decades. Since 1991, Sheila has been shaping young minds and fostering a love for learning. She proudly holds a BA degree from Seattle Pacific University, graduating with honors, a testament to her commitment to academic excellence. Her journey in education includes diverse roles, from teaching five years in a private academy, to teaching in two 4A public schools in Washington state. Additionally, Sheila took on the rewarding role of homeschooling her own daughter, which provided deep insight into how to create an individualized learning plan for students. In just nine months her own daughter grew two grade levels under her tutelage. Sheila’s passion lies in building meaningful relationships with her students. Her teaching philosophy revolves around creating an environment that ignites love for learning, joy in exploration, and enthusiasm for knowledge. Her dedication to education extends beyond the classroom, as she has also served as a mentor for fellow teachers in her school district. In addition, Sheila conducted a district training on how to create effective classroom and behavior management systems; leaving a positive impact on both primary and secondary educators in her school district. She has been recognized as a distinguished educator in every district she has taught in. No one should teach who is not in love with teaching. That is why I teach. ~ Mrs. Byrd Director, Homestead Elementary Beyond academics, Sheila has a heart for spiritual growth in the lives of young children. She loves to teach other women and children how to build a personal relationship with God through daily prayer, scripture meditation, and worship. She has taught Bible classes and led women’s ministries in several churches, as well as directing numerous chapel sermons over the years. Her love for both children and women’s ministry reflects her heart for spiritual growth. A proud mother to three adult sons and an adopted daughter from China, Sheila’s family values resonate in all she does, especially in her teaching. With 37 years of marriage and four grandsons and a grand daughter, her nurturing spirit extends beyond the classroom into her personal life. It is with many years of teaching experience, people skills, and mentoring, that Sheila Byrd brings herself to Homestead Elementary. This has been a culmination of over 35 years of experience and training in the making. She now brings everything she has ever done into this schoolhouse endeavor, to serve the Lord with joy for such a time as this. 34 Carsten Byrd Meet Carsten Byrd, a devoted educator whose passion lies in nurturing young minds and building lasting connections within the classroom. With a career dedicated to elementary education, Carsten's expertise lies in early childhood development, particularly in the crucial area of foundational literacy skills. Carsten holds a master’s certification in education from Northwest University. With over a decade of teaching experience in both private and public schools, he has established himself as a dedicated and distinguished educator. His commitment to elementary education is reflected in his ongoing service to the students and families that he serves. Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands for us. ~Psalm 90:17 Carsten's compassionate and giving nature fosters a supportive environment where every child can flourish. His unwavering commitment to the well-being and academic success of his students extends beyond the confines of the classroom. Outside of education, Carsten engages his creative side through a love for art, painting, gardening and cooking. He also enjoys crafting his own masterpieces with the aid of a 3D printer. This hobby reflects his curious and imaginative spirit, enriching both his personal and professional pursuits. His profound devotion to the Word of God also serves as the cornerstone of his life, imbuing every facet with purpose and moral direction. His commitment to educational excellence leaves an enduring impression on his students and their families.

Source: [About Us](https://homesteadelementary.org/about-us/)
Site manifest: [Homestead Elementary](https://homesteadelementary.org/llms.txt)