4th Grade

Welcome to Fourth Grade! 
Mrs. Smith

Hello there! My name is Sophie Smith and this is my second year teaching fourth grade here at Rock Ridge! I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Metropolitan State University of Denver. Rock Ridge is the first school that I have officially taught at, although all of my prior experience has been with fourth grade, lucky me! Last year I was formerly known as Ms. Flynn, so many of the kids know me by that name. After getting married I have changed my name to Mrs. Smith!

I have lived in Colorado my whole life and I love it here. I grew up in Parker and graduated from a Douglas County school, myself! When I am not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Colton, and my friends and family. My favorite place to go is Grand Lake, Colorado. I also enjoy hiking, reading, and spending time with our two cats, Rockie and Pepper!

Teaching is my passion and something that I have wanted to do ever since I was in elementary school myself. I feel so lucky that I am able to do this! I believe that all students should learn in a welcoming, inclusive classroom environment that allows for individuality and comfort. I aim to create a student-centered classroom environment where I can meet each student where they are at; we work as a team!

I send weekly email updates including information about what is going on in class as well as important upcoming dates. However, if you ever need to reach me, email is going to be the best way! I will always try to get back to you as soon as possible. You can reach me at INTERNAL LINK [email protected].

I can’t wait for a great school year and to work with all of your wonderful children this year! Thank you so much for all of your support!

INTERNAL LINK [email protected]
For weekly updates, daily schedule, homework, important dates, and other happenings, please visit my weekly Google Webpage at Nezbeda News!
Weekly Updates Homework Packets Common Questions Lunch Menu
Daily Schedule Upcoming Dates Lightening Dismissal Resources
Welcome to Rock Ridge! I am Jakob Nezbeda, I'm a Fourth Grade elementary teacher at RockRidge Elementary who has been in the educational field since 2000, and teaching in the classroom since 2006. In my teaching career, I have taught second grade through Fifth Grade, with a majority being Fourth, and have served multiple roles within the education system on my campus. I have been on the Building Leadership Team, The Yearbook Club, the president of student council, member of the Data Analysis Team, and am often the one to test pilot a curriculum  or piece of technology in my building. As I have continued to adapt to the education and  rigor that's put on our students and families, I continue to perfect the craft of teaching. The yearly challenges, the growth, and the success stories, make my career an absolute blessing. As I often tell my friends, I go to work because I want to, and I leave because I have to. 

Some favorites of mine are Basketball, volleyball, gym, skiing and church. I like energy drinks, lightly roasted coffee, Powerades (Grape). Snacks I enjoy Beef Jerky, Wasabi Almonds, BBQ chips, and Fuji apples. Some stores I shop at are Amazon, REI, Walmart and Murdocks. Restaurant chains you can find me at are Arby's, Subway, Papa Murphy's, and Red Robin! 

A few brief facts about myself, is that I'm an immigrant from the Czech Republic. I was 10 years old when we arrived in America, after escaping his refugees. So I went through the American education system as an English language learner. I have a fiance, and we are both heavily involved in our church, we can't wait to bless a little one into our family of Christ. We live in Colorado, and we enjoy all the outdoors that it has to offer.

As for my philosophy on education, I will keep it short and brief. The goal of a teacher is to be a facilitator, not a dictator. As to guide students into exploration, collaboration, and to develop opportunities that students take ownership of their own learning. It's to discipline, coach desired behaviors, rather than to punish, and expect conformity. Education is about best practices for student learning, not the most convenient practices for the teacher. And as our world has continued to evolve, we are being asked to put more on our plates than ever before. Future burnout is a real thing, if so, you must find time to stay current on trends, adopt initiatives with evidence and optimism, my time for mental health.