Welcome to 3rd Grade!

          Third grade is a wonderful time of life, and I am excited to be a part of your child’s 3rd grade experiences.  

          My name is Suzanne Gray.  I am originally from Ohio, but I have lived in Peru for over 26 years.  I have four children, all of which have attended Peru schools.  My oldest son, Jonah, is 26, and is a Physical Therapist.  He has been married for one year!  I have a daughter, Molly who is 23, and a nurse at Riley Hospital Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit. She graduated in April of 2025. I also have a Senior at Taylor University, Jakob.  He is studying Cyber Security. He has worn hearing aids since he was 6 months old. Finally, I have my son Joshua.  Josh is an ABA Therapist and is currently looking for work! He graduated high school in 2025.

         I have been married to Ted, a Peru native, 27 years.  We met while on a church mission trip to Jamaica.  I was living in Alabama at the time, and Ted lived here in Peru…. but that is a story for another time!  J

        This is my sixth year with a third grade classroom!  While in college I took all my Elementary Education courses and Psychology, with the thoughts of being a School Psychologist someday.  However, I changed my major my senior year of college, and became an Organizational Psychologist.  I worked in Human Resources for a nationwide manufacturer, until the factory closed, and I stayed home with children.  I then did a transition to teaching graduate certification through Indiana Wesleyan University.  I have worked for Blair Pointe as an Instructional Assistant for the 4^th grade, a 4^th grade teacher, and as a Reading Specialist Aide for the 3^rd grade.  I LOVE 3^rd grade!!

       While in Peru, I have worked with the Substance Abuse Prevention Council, and have volunteered at many places!  I am actively involved in our church, and currently lead a women's Bible study.     

       This year your child will be learning many new academic concepts.  Hold on!  We will cover a great deal of new information.  We will also focus on organizational skills and developing students into responsible students.  I believe that each student is capable of success, with hard work and a cooperative spirit. Success looks different for each child.  I, therefore, have high expectations for all my students and will work diligently to help them achieve their goals.  In my classroom, we will focus a great deal on respect, kindness, demonstrating responsibility, and teamwork. 

       I am very excited that you have shared your child with me this year.  I know what a treasure each child truly is, each one is unique, and special.  I intend to treat your children with the same love and Christian kindness that I show my own children.  If you have any questions, please feel free to ask, and I will get back with you.  Thank you for all you do to help your child be successful.  You are an important part of their learning experience.