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Hello and Welcome!

My name is Shira Kempes, and I am so excited for another year on the Explorers team teaching 5th grade Language Arts. This is my fourth year at Upper Merion, but I have been teaching for fourteen years. As the daughter of teachers, I was destined to graduate from Penn State with a B.S. in Elementary Education. Since having the incredible opportunity to student teach in England, I have developed a love of world travel and classroom technology, which led to my earning a Masters in Instructional Media from Wilkes University. 

When I am not at school, I spend my time traveling with my husband, also a teacher, having dance parties with my 1 year-old son, reading on the beach, learning to kickbox, and shopping for shoes. 

I am a big believer that learning should be fun, and I am always looking for ways to bring laughter and excitement to my classroom. I am thrilled to be starting another year with the UMASD family as an Explorer and I cannot wait to embark on this adventure!

Please do not hesitate to contact me! The best way to reach me is via email at skempes@umasd.org.