8th grade – ELA/SS ICT
What is your background and education?
I was born in Washington DC and grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland in a family of teachers, professors, social workers and artists. Each summer, I led children and teens on extensive trips along the Appalachian Trail and the Shenandoah, James River and New River. Teaching teens to support each other as they learn to rock climb, steer a canoe through white water or navigate with a topographic map, were great experiences for learning how community is strengthened when we encourage each other to try new things.
I received an undergrad in modern dance from the University of Maryland and spent five years performing professionally. I was always interested in my grandmother’s work as a speech and language pathologist and decided to pursue a masters degree in special education and applied behavior analysis with an emphasis on verbal behavior: speaker, listener, writer and reader. I received my master’s from Teachers College, Columbia University.
How long have you been teaching?
I have been working full-time as a service provider and teacher since 1996.
What is your favorite part of teaching?
Sharing curiosity about the world and its people with my students and helping them discover their own enthusiasm for learning motivates me as a teacher. When I help a student learn to express themselves more clearly, I feel a deep sense of satisfaction.
What do you like to do outside of school?
I am close to my three younger siblings and their children, who now live up and down the east coast. We are interested in health and love cooking together. I enjoy reading (especially historical fiction) with my book club. When I have free time in the city I like to learn about the history of the Harlem Renaissance and how those Black artforms, from nearly 100 years ago, continue to influence modern art and grow today. I enjoy dancing Lindy Hop and Balboa with my friends to live jazz.
September 2024