Macarena Montero
Favorite Quote:
“I wasn't born to just teach. I was born to inspire others, to change people, and to never give up;even when faced with challenges that seem impossible"
GENERAL INFORMATION:
Name: Macarena Montero
Years in Education: 7
subject: Elementary Learning Services
PROFESSIONAL/QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
Degrees:
Master's of Education in Elementary Education - DePaul University
Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology - University of Arkansas
Professional Training and Experience:
Upper and Lower Elementary Literacy Coach (2022-Present)
Lower Elementary Literacy Coach (2021-2022)
KG3 Teacher (2021-2022)
First grade Teacher (2017-2021)
Learning Lab Coach (2016-2017)
Little GEMS International: Toddler Classroom (2015-2016)
FUN FACTS:
I was born in La Paz, Bolivia and was a student at ACS from KG4 all the way to 12th grade when I graduated in 2008. I went to Fayetteville Arkansas after I graduated high school and earned a degree in Psychology. After earning my undergraduate degree I came back to Bolivia for one year, where I worked in early childhood education with children who were three and four years old. I decided that teaching was my passion and I moved to Chicago where I earned my master's degree in education. During the length of the masters program, I was required to teach and observe students in different elementary grade levels who came from a variety of backgrounds. This was a very special experience that taught me so much about embracing each child's unique background and personality. During my student teaching, I also worked with a gifted 3rd grade class. After earning my master's degree, I worked in Chicago for one year at a pre-school with toddler children. I then decided to move back to La Paz and returned to ACS; this time as a staff member! I worked for one year as a Learning Lab Coach where I worked with KG5 and 1st grade students. After a year in ACS, I became a 1st grade teacher and taught first grade for four fantastic years!
I am very excited and happy to be working at such a great school with amazing coworkers! I love being a teacher and I love learning from my students as well. It is wonderful to see students learn and grow each day as they discover the world and I am very lucky that I get to be a part of that. I aim to make each day fun and exciting for my students while I create a safe environment where they feel respected and loved.