1.Can you describe your approach to classroom management and maintaining a positive learning environment?

Classroom management for me is establishing rules and procedures at the beginning of the year. Reminding students of the consequences that come if they aren't followed has to be a reminder for those students that need it.

For maintaining a positive learning environment, I like to make my students laugh, ask about their interests, and not take myself seriously as a teacher. My students and I have positive rapport with each other since we share common interests. The result of this, also minimizes negative classroom behaviors.

2. How does AVID help students prepare for college and beyond?

AVID helps students to start thinking about possible careers they want to pursue after high school. I teach students different types of colleges and go over the different programs that are offered at each. AVID also teaches students collaboration skills and the ability to advocate for themselves. These skills are useful in the real world in any career.

3. How do you effectively manage the responsibility of teaching two subjects?

In order for me to manage my responsibilities in teaching math and AVID, I take time to plan engaging lessons that my students will benefit from. I like to put myself in my students' shoes when I plan. I always try to make everything I do fun for students. I get to school early enough where I can plan ahead for weeks at a time and if I need to, adjust my lessons as needed.

4. What do you find most rewarding about teaching math?

I feel like math is the most hated subject by students. It takes time and practice to learn math. Just like in any sport. I believe it takes the right teacher with the right attitude that is willing to walk to each student to offer help and guidance. The most rewarding aspect of teaching math is listening to students have conversations with each other about math when they work together and teach each other. It shows that students are learning what I taught them. That makes me proud.

5.What led you to become a teacher?

I felt like I had some good teachers growing up and some bad ones. As I discovered who I was as a person after high school, I felt like I could be one of those good teachers to make a difference in student's lives. I knew I wanted to teach at a middle school while I went through my credential program. I felt like I could guide students more at this age and set them up for success as best as I could for high school.

6.How do you ensure that all students, regardless of background, have access to the resources and support they need to succeed in AVID?

All students have access to the course CANVAS page and are given time to complete assignments. I also allow them to turn in late work for full credit as long as it's not over a month late. I provide my AVID students the resources they need to be successful in my class at the beginning of the school year and model how to use their resources.

7.How do you foster a positive and inclusive learning environment in your classroom?

To foster a positive and inclusive learning environment in my classroom, I provide all my students with equal opportunities to achieve success in the classroom. I allow them to collaborate with their peers on all assignments and give them rewards for positive behavior. 

8.Describe your communication style with students, parents, and colleagues.

My communication style with students is straightforward. When it comes to grades, I tell students what they need to do in order to raise their grade. I keep all interactions positive. To create a positive culture in the classroom, I build positive rapport with students by having a sense of humor with them. 

With parents, I communicate with them through ParentSquare. Our interactions are to the point of what they are asking me for feedback on. With colleagues, I always maintain my interactions positive. Everyone likes to have a great day and maintaining that energy is important. Don't ever let anyone bring your positive energy down with their negative energy.

9. Can you provide a brief overview of your experience as a Math Teacher or in a similar role?

I've been a math teacher for 10 years. I feel like each year is another opportunity to grow professionally. I love learning new ways to teach math. I love learning about different ways to get students to apply their knowledge whether it's through speaking or writing. 

10.How do you handle situations where a student is struggling to understand a concept despite multiple explanations and interventions?

For students that struggle, I provide opportunities for them to come in for tutoring during lunch or provide different resources for them. I ask students to let me know what it is in math that they are struggling with so that I can target a specific skill they may be lacking in order for them to master the grade level standard.  

By: Mia M. and Esperanza R.