Experience and Reflections

I taught science from January of 2006 to June of 2021 at Williamstown High School in Monroe Township, NJ. I have taught the following courses: General Integrated Science III, Fundamentals of Science, College Prep Chemistry, Honors Chemistry, Advanced Placement Chemistry. Additionally I have developed the Introduction to Astronomy Course, debuting in the Fall of 2020. I have co-taught at least two classes every year since 2007 and have attended and turnkeyed several co-teaching workshops in addition to creating my own co-teach workshop.

Teaching a wealth of courses is important to me to show flexibility in workload and diversity in student populations taught over time. I feel that all educators should have experience with students of all backgrounds and education levels.

While employed at Williamstown, I have enjoyed being the advisor of two classes, the Class of 2011 and the Class of 2018. In addition, I have also advised the Interact Club, Students Against Violating the Earth Club, and the Hockey Club. For the past year, I have served as the Student of the Month advisor, managing the nomination and voting process for our students of the month.

Being an advisor to organizations within the school and being involved in student extracurricular activities is an advantage to teachers and administrators alike because there is a direct impact on a student's life in ways they may care more deeply about than their coursework. Establishing positive relationships with those students will earn their respect, which then can be turnkeyed into improved academic and social performance.

I have dedicated time to volunteering for many different activities at Williamstown including, SITE Council member, PowderPuff football coach, Prom and Semi Formal Dance chaperone, Class Trip Chaperone, Principal-Teacher Forum participant, Public Address Announcer for Basketball games, National Honor Society Mentor, DECA trip chaperone and judge, After School Detention and 3-7 School Proctor, and many more activities.

Being a paid advisor of an extracurricular activity is important, but immersing yourself in your school community by volunteering for activities is vital as well. The community service is not just for yourself or even for the students, it is to show the community that you genuinely care about the school, students and the parents. Doing something simple like attending the school play, writing a letter of recommendation or going to a volleyball match will leave an impact on the student and influence their decisions and decorum when in your class.

I spent seven years as an Association Representative for the Monroe Township Education Association, including four years as First Vice President and Grievance Chair and one year as Second Vice President and Membership Chair. I also was Negotiations Chair for two contracts and attended multiple leadership conferences held by the New Jersey Education Association and the Gloucester County Education Association.

Being an advocate for each and every student is a valuable endeavor, but advocating for yourself and colleagues is equally as worthwhile. Not only are collegiality and professionalism skills one can attain as an Association Representative, but the ability to work with administrators on solving problems and creating solutions leaves you empowered and respected.