Take a look at my teaching philosophy and beliefs, get to know me a little, and then scroll down to find your class link! You can also find links to De Anza College and Canvas at the bottom.
I'm going to let you in on a secret: I didn't always love reading and writing. As a kid, I was diagnosed with dyslexia, and at times I hated reading and writing. But, I had some great teachers, including my mom, who encouraged me. This is why I became a teacher: I want to show all of you, no matter your struggle, that you too can do it.
πͺπΎ Writing is like muscle: the more you work it out, the easier it is. Sometimes I still struggle, and sometimes I procrastinate! So, here's what I do: I try to practice it every day, so that it feels more comfortable, just like working out. ππ½ββοΈSome days will be tough. Expect to make mistakes. That's ok! I know it sounds scary, but failure is how we learn and improve.
My goal is to create an inclusive environment that fosters meaningful engagement and learning by welcoming and recognizing your diverse backgrounds. Is English your second language? Do you love English? Do you hate it? I'm here for you! You can do it.Β
π¨πΎβπ»I love teaching online, asynchronous classes because they celebrate inclusivity by allowing you to learn at your own pace, in your own style.
π£I welcome your feedback at any time in this course. Your feedback empowers me to become a better teacher.Β
π Hi! I am an English teacher at De Anza College. I'm so happy you're here!Β I like to go by my first name, so please call me Sarah.Β
I was born and raised in the Bay Area. My dad, who was a Film & TV instructor at De Anza, used to take me to work with him, and I always dreamed of working here. I have been a teacher since 2006, and I have taught at De Anza since 2008.Β
In my free time, I love running ππ½ββοΈ, yoga, hiking, eating, cooking, reading, and watching bad tv. My favorite food is noodles! I am half Egyptian and half White. I live in the South Bay with my wife, Amy Leonard--who is also an English teacher at De Anza and way better than me--and our three cats. π
π€ I love to learn! I attended De Anza and Foothill Colleges, and later I received my BA in English Literature from UCSC and my MA in English Literature from SFSU, where I also received two Graduate Certificates in teaching. I also have two Graduate Certificates in Online Education from CSUEB and @ONE. I loved all of these schools, so feel free to ask me about them!
πI want to acknowledge what a tough time in our lives this is with COVID-19, the wildfires, and racial injustice in our country. This is a particularly difficult time for Black people and those from other racially and ethnically marginalized groups. I believe in anti-racist writing instruction and grading practices. I want you to know that I am committed to creating a learning environment where all students feel safe and are treated with dignity.π