I hold a BFA in Graphic Design from SUNY New Paltz. After substitute teaching in elementary classrooms, I pursued my MS in Childhood/Special Education at LIU Post. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA over the course of my studies.
My Certifications
My Certifications
My Certifications
I am certified in First Aid/CPR/AED for both infants and adults. I hold a Level 1 Teaching Assistant Certification. I will be eligible for NYS certification in Childhood Education (Grades 1-6) and Students with Disabilities (Grades K-12) in January 2024.
My Experience
My Certifications
My Experience
I worked as a building substitute teacher at J. Fred Sparke Elementary for the ‘20-21, ‘21-22, and ‘22-23 school years. During that time, I acted as a long term substitute in a first grade classroom for two months. My duties included lesson planning, classroom management, instruction of all subjects, and assessments. I completed my studen
I worked as a building substitute teacher at J. Fred Sparke Elementary for the ‘20-21, ‘21-22, and ‘22-23 school years. During that time, I acted as a long term substitute in a first grade classroom for two months. My duties included lesson planning, classroom management, instruction of all subjects, and assessments. I completed my student teaching placements in a fourth grade general education classroom and a resource room serving first through fifth grade students.
“Every student can learn, just not on the same day, or the same way.”
-George Evans
George Evans has succinctly described the primary philosophy by which my teaching is guided: All students are able to learn. However, some children may require alternative approaches and extra time to meet the same standards as others. The ability to meet the needs of a diverse group of students is a marker of a successful educator. With this in mind, I consider the learning styles and aptitudes of my students to guide my instruction. In addition, I utilize multimodal learning regularly to ensure success for all students.
Whole-Child Approach
All Students Can Learn
All Students Can Learn
Beyond instructional methods, I have found that the use of a whole-child approach produces significant positive outcomes for students. In order to teach, all aspects of each child should be considered: mental and physical health as well as cognitive, identity, social emotional, and academic development. A student cannot be fully present and ready to learn if all needs are not being met. Equitable and supportive classroom environments ensure a better opportunity for learning. Empathy, patience, and flexibility are key characteristics of a good teacher. Students learn best from teachers that they like and respect.
Learner Centered Model
Learner Centered Model
Learner Centered Model
I believe that a classroom that meets the needs of all students utilizes a learner-centered model. This postmodern educational model promotes the idea that students should have a primary role in their own learning, teachers simply act as guides for students. In my classroom, student perspectives and ideas are valued highly and learners are encouraged to share their personal knowledge. Students are offered frequent opportunities for collaborative thinking and discussion, centered around real-world problem solving. Through collaborative projects and discussions, I perform the role of a facilitator and students work together to solve problems and develop critical thinking skills which are necessary for 21st century living.
Growth Mindset
Learner Centered Model
Learner Centered Model
As an educator, I value the concept of a growth mindset and work to encourage students to build grit and take on difficult challenges. To give an example, as a fourth grade student teacher, I took on the challenge of a personal narrative unit in writing. Upon introduction of the unit, I encountered several reluctant writers that would groan at the beginning of writing lessons. Each day, I would give students a block of time to work on their writing and build writing stamina, as I conferenced with other students. As the weeks progressed, students began to ask when we would be writing each day, even requesting to write during free time. Students that previously dreaded writing showed great pride in their work and wanted to share at every opportunity. An effective teacher not only imparts knowledge on students, but also helps them build the skills and confidence to continue learning and growing throughout their lives.