BACKGROUND- I have been a teacher in the Napa Valley for 15 years. I have had the privilege of being a 4th-6th grade bilingual teacher, ELD teacher and for the past 8 years as an Intervention Teacher and Academic Specialist at Northwood Elementary. My own two children attended this amazing neighborhood school and going to work there everyday feels like a second home to me.
EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY- When searching to add to my ridiculously large children's book collection at a garage sale, I came across this stuffed clown fish. At the time, I thought Dory's quote was just a cute reminder for my struggling 4th and 5th grade Read 180 students to persevere through the challenges of becoming stronger readers. As simple as it may seem, this quote actually reflects my educational philosophy. Dory repeatedly sang this now famous line because it was one of the few things she could remember that her parents taught her. Her parents didn't judge her because she had a "disability"; they were patient, kind and set up routines for her to help her along. When her memory lapsed and she profusely apologized, her parents would reassure her that it was OK and sang her this song. I believe that ALL students deserve a supportive environment where they are encouraged to always continue to grow. Using the right strategies, children will strive to reach our high expectations. Sometimes they just need a little help in finding the way.
TPACK JOURNEY- My decision to pursue my Master's Degree was at first a bit daunting since I received my Teacher's Credential from Sacramento State way back in 1997 and I honestly wan't sure I would remember how to be a student! (Old dog-new tricks?) The flexibility of the Innovative Learning Program allowed me to truly "walk the walk" as a life long learner that I constantly preach about to my two teenagers. After learning more about TPACK and finding how to better meet students' needs with technology and choosing the right tool to make content more accessible to students, I have been better equipped to channel my inner Dory..."Just Keep Swimming!"