Upper School Spanish Teacher
Know Your Pelicans
What do you teach? What is one of your favorite parts of the curriculum?
I teach Spanish. I've taught every level from Middle School to the AT level. My favorite parts of the curriculum are those moments when I get to show students how Spanish ties into culture. Things like music, pop culture, and everyday things students can to relate to.
I'm also the Dean of the Class of 2018. I'm responsible for helping the grade with multiple things, from academic scheduling to social-emotional topics. This class has a special place in my heart because I've know so many of them for so long (as far back as 6th and 7th Grade). Some of them took Spanish with me in Middle School!
Besides your subject, what's something you hope to teach your students?
I always hope to teach my students how to have respect and appreciation for all members of our community. Everyone plays a huge role in their education. In many cases, the important life lessons they'll learn will take place outside of the classroom. I also hope to teach students to bring their heart and compassion to their dealings with other people.
Tell us about a time you learned something from our students.
During a class discussion one day, a student spoke about the number of things they had to do in one night and how they accomplished them. It reminded me to see students not just as scholars, but as people who wear multiple hats too. They carry multiple identities and responsibilities, in addition to their academic responsibilities. They also come from all five boroughs and New Jersey!
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
Wow, this is always a tough one, and it always comes down to two. I would love the superpower of healing. It would allow me to save a lot of friends and people I love.
I also love to travel, so teleportation would be pretty cool too!
What is your favorite space in the building?
My favorite space (when I have time to enjoy it) would be the Commons and Student Center. It is the crossroads of Packer: many people from many divisions pass through there during the day. It's nice to go there and have conversations with students and colleagues.