My name is Josh Bliss and this is my fourth year at Hale School.  I've taught in Minneapolis since 1993.  I spent the first three years at Wilder Fundamental and 13 years at Sheridan Global Arts School.  I have spent the majority of the time in 3rd grade, but also have some experience teaching 2nd and 4th grades.  I’m very excited about starting my fourth year at Hale and having the opportunity to be your child’s teacher this year.

I grew up in Minneapolis and attended Minneapolis Public Schools.  I went to Page Elementary School, Anthony Junior High, and Washburn High School.  Afterwards I received a B.A. in Speech-Communications from Gustavus Adolphus College.  I obtained my teaching license and Master’s Degree from the University of St. Thomas.  I am one of four children in my family.  Three of us are adopted.  I’m fortunate to have a great relationship with my parents and family that raised me, as well as my biological family. 

My wife, Barb, is also a teacher.  She teaches in the White Bear Lake School District.  We have three children, Quinn, Joaquin, and Joshua James or J.J.  When I’m not teaching, I coach and play tennis.  I enjoy spending time up North at our family’s cabin.  I also like to read, paint, take pictures, and swim.  

While I take learning very seriously, I enjoy using laughter as a means of learning.  I especially enjoy 3rd grade because students make great strides towards independence and originality in work.  My wife also says I did not mature much beyond 3rd grade.  I enjoy teaching all subject areas that elementary teaching requires, however, reading is my biggest passion.  I enjoy the wealth of information and knowledge that can be gained through reading.  I like the process of helping students acquire new reading strategies and skills.  While I strive to have a fun classroom learning environment, I also believe it is my job to challenge students beyond their own expectations. I look forward to helping them grow academically, behaviorally, and as responsible members of the learning community.

I’m very happy your child is in my class and I’m looking forward to a great school year.  I can be contacted in a variety of ways.  While I prefer email, here are the best ways to contact me as of right now:

Hale Elementary: (612)-668-3760

Email: joshua.bliss@mpls.k12.mn.us  

I appreciate having open communication with parents.

Sincerely,

Joshua Bliss