Experience Summary
Throughout college, I completed two field experiences followed by my student teaching experience. In between my field experiences, I substitute taught in three different school districts. These personal accounts allowed me to examine the similarities and differences within grade levels, and to recognize the various strategies used to reach all learners in both suburban and urban settings. Being out in the field also enabled me to further enhance my ability to communicate well with students, parents and faculty.
My studies abroad in Seville, Spain are also an essential supplement to my educational training and background. Being immersed in a foreign language and culture is an experience all its own.
Last year I taught 3rd grade at Salida del Sol Elementary in Yuma, AZ. Many of the students that I taught were English Language Learners. I felt that I could relate to those students in a more personal way in that I too have faced a similar challenge in life (learning a foreign language). Keeping this in mind, I was able to better reach all learners and diversify my teaching. The professional development courses I have attended so far have also been enlightening. Such courses include Positive Classroom Discipline and Instruction, Student Engagement, and Reading Strategies for English Language Learners, among others. Along with my previous training, these courses have guided me in educating all of my students to become knowledgeable, responsible and productive citizens.
This August, I will begin teaching 4th grade at Cyril Wengert Elementary School in Las Vegas, NV.
Teaching Style
There are many teaching methods that stand behind my philosophy. I believe that remaining aware of the different ways in which children learn, and taking those learning styles into consideration throughout my lesson planning and delivery, is of great importance. The classroom environment is also very important. A healthy learning environment, where both my students and I can take risks, make mistakes and learn from one another, is key. My philosophy of education will keep on evolving as I gain teaching experience. I will add some new goals and revise others. Even as my philosophy undergoes change, I believe that my main goal will remain the same. My mission is to motivate students to become life-long learners, and help them acquire skills that will enable them to pursue independent learning.