Ms. Rapoza is a kindergarten associate teacher at Alma’s Sarah D. Ottiwell Campus.
What made you decide to join the Crew at Alma?
I decided to join the crew at Alma because of its commitment to high learning standards in addition to equitable and inclusive education methodology.
What do you hope to contribute to Alma?
I hope to contribute a positive and open minded teaching environment with an eventual focus on dance pedagogy that develops students’ individual artistic voice and cognitive development.
What teacher made a difference in your life, and how?
My dance history teacher Professor Stephen Ursprung at Dean College. He put the needs of the students first and never sacrificed his individual voice as a teacher. He was difficult and held us all to higher standards than we thought we were capable of but was fair and approachable.
Why did you become involved in education?
I became involved in education because I had a difficult time in school growing up and I wanted to make sure that no other students had the same experiences that I did.
Where did you go to college or post-secondary school?
I went to Dean College for undergrad where I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Dance. I went to New York University for graduate school where I earned my Master’s Degree in Dance Education.
What did you like about your college?
I liked how small Dean College was, it allowed for a more individualized learning environment. I liked NYU’s focus on diversity and equity, in addition to addressing the disparities and erasure in regards to Dance History and Dance Education.
What is your favorite food?
Boston Creme Donuts
What is your favorite book?
Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chobosky