My name is Mr. Falasz and I teach 7th Grade ELA. This is my 4th year in Itasca and 17th year teaching overall. I have earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Literature with Secondary Education certification from Elmhurst College and a Master’s Degree in Reading from Concordia University. I love being a middle school teacher and have experience working with all middle grade levels, 6-8. My goals are to strengthen your child’s ELA skills (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) as well as their “People” skills (empathy, compassion, respect, critical thinking, professionalism, etc.). I strive to build meaningful relationships with each of my students and challenge them to rise to goals and standards specific to their individual needs and abilities. In my personal life I am a huge music enthusiast and record collector. I also enjoy watching baseball and football, playing video games, and of course, reading!