2nd Grade

In 2nd grade, growing independence blossoms into joyful confidence as students master core academics, embrace global traditions, and step into school-wide leadership.

Finding — and Using — Their Voices

As students step into 2nd grade, their growing independence transforms into vibrant confidence and deeper critical thinking. Building upon the social-emotional foundation of prior years, daily morning meetings through our Responsive Classroom approach continue to nurture a close-knit, supportive community where students feel empowered to use their voices — whether sharing in class or presenting at all-school Flag Line.

A Celebration of Family

A cherished Carlthorp tradition, 2nd Grade Family Celebration brings global social studies to life. Students deepen research and literacy skills by interviewing a relative, authoring a heritage book, and dressing a bear in traditional attire. This beloved program culminates in a vibrant performance of international songs and dances, honoring each family's heritage while celebrating our shared humanity.

Excellence at the Core

In 2nd grade, foundational skills meet deep conceptual learning. Students cultivate a lifelong love of reading through Fundations, targeted reading groups, and literary classics like Charlotte’s Web. Writing thrives through poetry, persuasive letters, and realistic fiction. Using Eureka Math² and Cognitively Guided Instruction, students master place value, double-digit fluency, and geometry — becoming real-world problem solvers.

Committed to the Code

A quintessential rite of passage, presenting the Code of Conduct at our all-school Flag Line assembly empowers 2nd graders to find their voice. Standing before the entire school community, students articulate core values like kindness, responsibility, and respect. This inspiring tradition builds foundational public speaking skills, instills poise, and reinforces a deep, lived commitment to our school's values every single day.

Meet the Team

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Elizabeth Worrell

Elizabeth grew up in Wisconsin and attended Concordia University in Chicago, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education. She continued at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, where she completed a Master of Science degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Literary Studies. Throughout her graduate program, she focused mainly on identifying and overcoming the social constructs that may cause boys to develop early and negative attitudes towards reading. Elizabeth has acquired a broad range of teaching experience in both elementary and middle schools. Her first assignment was in suburban Chicago teaching 2nd grade. After moving to California, she spent eight years teaching 7th and 8th grade students at Venice Lutheran, an independent school just down the road from Carlthorp. While there, Elizabeth started an astronomy partnership with a local university, helped rethink the school’s reading curriculum, directed and co-directed numerous theatrical productions and incorporated many forms of educational technology into her classroom. In her free time, Elizabeth is an avid reader who is always on the lookout for high interest books to add to the 2nd grade library.
Cori Snelson

Cori grew up in Rochester Hills, Michigan. She graduated from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, with a degree in Elementary Education. After college, she taught in Atlanta, Georgia, where she received a master's in Early Childhood Education and became a member of the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators. She is a certified Social Emotional Learning Facilitator as well as a Specialized Reading tutor, working to build the utmost confidence in her students. In her spare time, Cori enjoys running, hiking, reading inspirational books, and taking pictures on the coast!
Kate Cushman

Ms. Kate Cushman is in her 24th year at Carlthorp and her 28th year of teaching. Growing up in Michigan, Kate received her B.A. from Hope College in Holland, Michigan. She has a master's degree in education from Pepperdine University and completed the Gifted Students certification program at USC's Rossier School of Education. Kate is a certified yoga instructor and Social Emotional Learning Facilitator. She has a passion for integrating mindfulness and yoga into the classroom.

When Kate isn't teaching, she loves to spend time with her husband, family, and apricot poodle, Scully. Being active — hiking, running, biking, and yoga — is also a big part of Kate's life. Inspiring students to be their best selves and being a part of the CS community brings Kate so much joy!
Sydney Estrada

Sydney is excited to begin her second year as a 2nd grade teacher at Carlthorp School. She aims to ensure that every child in her classroom feels seen and heard while fostering an environment that helps them to grow academically and emotionally. Sydney attended Santa Clara University, where she majored in psychology and minored in communication and urban education. She went on to pursue a master's in teaching at the University of Southern California. Prior to joining Carlthorp, Sydney taught at the elementary level at The Hamlin School and Campbell Hall. Born and raised in San Marino, California, Sydney enjoys spending time with her loved ones, staying active, and exploring new restaurants.