Experience Summary
While at Brandeis University, I learned the value of using research-based practices and collaborating with colleagues to improve the quality of my instruction. I have carried that knowledge with me as a professional. I have been teaching for four years, first as a fifth grade teacher in Teaneck, NJ, and now as a Basic Skills Language Arts teacher for grades 1-4 in Pennsauken, NJ, where I work with struggling learners. I have also participated in Balanced Literacy, Japanese Lesson Study, and Unit Writing workshops. For two years, I have tutored 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade public school students after school in preparation for NJASK.
Teaching Style
At the core of my teaching style is the belief that my instruction needs to be tailored to the needs of my individual students on an ongoing basis. I work primarily with struggling learners, and they have taught me a great deal about the ingredients that lead to effective teaching and learning. I am creative and utilize my students' interests when designing my lessons and units of study. I incorporate research-based practices into my instruction, and I value collaboration between colleagues and involvement with parents in order to help students achieve success. I approach my students with kindness, patience, and respect, and I believe it is important to carefully guide the students toward experiencing academic success using discovery-based learning, thoughtful lesson-planning, and flexibility in my instruction to meet their needs and interests.