Introduction

Professional Life

Currently, I am a first grade teacher and curriculum coach at a small charter school located in Gilbert, Arizona.  Because I work with young children, I spend my days reminding kids to use the bathroom before they have an accident, wiping snot off my sleeve, listening to my name being called about a million and a half times per day, and applying band aids to so called boo-boos!  I also spend my days teaching young children to comprehend the basic foundation of the English language, to understand the relationship between mathematical concepts and the real world, and to interact with other children and adults in a socially acceptable manner.  I love my occupation!!!

For the past eight years, I have taught mainly in early elementary classrooms including preschool, kindergarten, first grade, and second grade.  I have worked with a diverse population of students, including students that are considered at-risk, students that are learning English as a second language, gifted students, and students with special needs.  Additionally, I privately tutor students, ranging from preschool age to high school age, in the subject areas of reading and math.

Academic Expertise

As long as I can remember, I knew that I would be a lifelong learner.  I have not only an extreme passion for learning, but also a tremendous desire to educate.  As a graduate student, I plan to fulfill my academic needs by receiving a Master of Arts in Teaching and Curriculum with a focus in reading and special education from Michigan State University.  I believe that this specific degree will assist me with reaching my personal career goals.  Recently, I have discovered my aspiration to educate teachers.  After I was given the opportunity to lead several professional development trainings with a focus on reading, to model effective reading and writing strategies to early elementary teachers, and to instruct mainstreamed classroom teachers on meeting the needs of special education students, I have realized the positive influence that I am able to contribute to other teachers.  Even though I absolutely love teaching children, I have found that I may have a greater impact with children if I educate teachers, especially in the areas of reading and special education.  Therefore, I have decided that I want to transfer into a curriculum coach position from an early elementary teacher.  After much consideration, I know that a Master of Arts in Teaching and Curriculum degree will provide me with the necessary educational tools in order to reach my future career goals.

Personal Interests

Most recently, after spending my entire life in St. Clair Shores, Michigan I decided to try moving across the country to Scottsdale, Arizona!  It has been an amazing year!  I have discovered new enjoyments including climbing mountains, exploring caverns, and swimming in natural creeks.  I love to travel and was able to cross off visiting the Grand Canyon and Sedona from my “Bucket List.”   I now enjoy hanging out at the pool and reading books.  Even though moving across the country had its challenges, I have discovered many new activities that I enjoy!