Effective teachers need to create an environment that promotes maximum learning. I believe a teacher MUST challenge and inspire a positive learning attitude, one that will continue into life. Teachers must pique students’ interest by using innovative lessons and techniques that breed discovery, creativity, and tolerance. The teacher MUST thoroughly love this profession and realize that enthusiasm for education begins at the top! I believe that it is important and empowering to be consciously aware of the theory behind what I teach and to be able to reflect those theories in my teaching approach.
Since beginning my teaching career in 1988, my experience as an educator has been multifaceted. My teaching experiences include ESL K-4 instructor and lead teacher (since 2001), 5th-grade teacher (5 years), K-5 Remedial Reading instructor (8 years), state ESL curriculum development writer, state testing development panel, new teacher mentor, teacher technology trainer (2 years), and CLIMBS facilitator. I have also been a well-received presenter at several state and regional conferences on the topics of ESL and technology.
I love sharing what I learn with others. Through this blog, I hope to do just that. I am a firm believer in not reinventing the wheel. I plan to share many of the things I find along the way... a little of this and that... and some ESL too!
