What made you decide to join the Crew at Alma?
I want to join Alma del Mar because I am inspired by your commitment fostering the development of our communities youth helping them become service-minded leaders. I believe that the flexibility and innovative approaches in charter schools allow for more personalized and engaging learning experiences. I’m passionate about making a meaningful impact in the community of New Bedford, and I appreciate how your school focuses on fostering the ability in scholars to discuss and analyze racial injustice on various levels, and while also providing them with opportunities to take action within their community. Additionally, I’m eager to work alongside a team of dedicated educators who share my vision for student success and professional growth.
What do you hope to contribute to Alma?
By utilizing my understanding of human development frameworks, the DSM and my background in child welfare I hope to contribute to the efforts of Alma del Mar educators in creating supportive environment for their students, one which fosters the development and growth of the minds of our communities youth, including their emotional and social development. It is my hope to create a safe and inclusive space where children feel valued, understood, and where their individuality is something to be celebrated. I would do so by working to identify and address issues that impact my student body and their abilities to learn.
What teacher made a difference in your life, and how?
As a child I was commonly referred to as "strong willed", I had a strong sense of morality, a strong desire to help and a voice that could not be stifled. At times this could come in conflict in a structured environment like school. During my 1st grade parent teacher conference my mother apologized for my "behavior" in class (i.e talking out, helping others do their work before I completed my own, etc.), my teacher, Mrs. Evans told my mother "do not break her spirit, because when she becomes a woman you will want for her to have that". It was this moment that my parents began fostering that spirit instead of fighting it. It was then I was able to set on the path that lead me to graduate with two degrees, and to find my way into the education system where I believe I can make an impact.
Why did you become involved in education?
From a young age I knew that my calling in life was to work with children and adolescents, more specifically those who are struggling with social emotional challenges and mental health diagnoses. Having started my professional career in a more clinical setting I learned that I could take my skills and passion and put them into practice in an environment that reached more children and in a more positive way. Education is more than simply academics, it is about nurturing the whole of the child. Bringing my background into the education system I felt that I could create a more supportive environment, one which fosters the emotional and social development of our communities youth. I envisioned doing so by creating a safe and inclusive space where children felt valued and understood, where their individuality was celebrated. Utilizing many of the frameworks I studied in addition to my experience I would ideally be able to identify and address issues that impact my student body and their abilities to learn. Educators are in essence the first line of defense for many children and adolescents. They are with their students for 7 or more hours a day, 5 days a week, and 184 days of the year. Educators are able to play a key role in raising awareness and providing access to support services for students and families. For this reason I wanted to become a part of a community of individuals who are as passionate as I am.
Where did you go to college or post-secondary school?
Bridgewater State University and Simmons Graduate College
What is your favorite food?
Meat, starch and carb combo, hold the veggies!
What is your favorite book?
Left To Tell by Immaculée Ilibagiza