Why did you become an educator?
Initially, I became an educator to save the world. After my first week, I knew I wanted to expose my students to a world beyond the four walls of their community. I needed to show them how to exist and do business with other cultures.
I was always really patient with other people’s children. I could show them how to learn in a variety ways and never lose my cool. This character trait has been a great benefit to my students. They challenge me to find ways to reach them where they are academically! I love seeing the smiles on their faces when they learn a new concept. It’s truly a rewarding moment when they take what I have taught them and teach it to their family.
What do you love about your school?
I love our school community. My colleagues are like family. They are very supportive. I love my supportive parents. They are always present when needed to help the teachers.
I really like the collaboration and team work displayed at my school daily. Everyone is an educator and we are all giving our all for the students. Each person has a purpose and can offer instruction to any given student at any given time including but not limited to academics. Social emotional learning and life skills is the responsibility of all adults in the building.
Why is it important that lower income children can attend schools of choice?
When lower income students have access to choice it levels the playing field. They get the same opportunities afforded to wealthier students. They can see beyond the horizon; a future that was never within reach for them.
When students are exposed to better opportunities they tend to rise to the occasion. They work harder to prove themselves to their peers, teachers and parents. They want to show others that they belong in a higher performing school.
Having choice is more than academics. They get to see how others live outside their community. They get to see another lifestyle; how others interact, live and travel. It’s all about exposure. You can dream bigger when you know there’s a whole other world outside of your community.
