I had the honor and privilege of teaching a diverse range of courses during my time at Dover High School. These included English I; Reading and Writing Workshop I, a supplemental course designed to provide additional support in literacy skills; Advanced Symposium, an ESL course; and an English elective I developed titled Real Talk. Real Talk focused on real-world strategies and concepts that equip students with the skills needed to succeed beyond high school and into adulthood.

My methodology revolves around one central point—teaching students the value of perspective. When students are working on a text, I want them to understand that it’s not just about exploring that text to earn a grade; it’s about teaching the value of perspective. My personal love for English, especially reading, grew out of the recognition that books allow us to walk in someone else’s shoes and experience something new. This concept is universal because the readers will oftentimes learn something valuable that they might be able to use going forward in life. 

I had the honor and privilege of teaching English 12 CPB and CPA as a paternity leave replacement at Morris Hills High School. Although the position lasted only three months, the experience was profoundly impactful and instrumental in my growth as an educator. During this time, I strengthened my ability to effectively support and manage a wide range of learners, from students requiring additional academic support to those enrolled in advanced, accelerated coursework.

I delivered a diverse array of English lessons while deepening my understanding of the importance of building meaningful, authentic relationships with students. I recognize that students look to me as a role model, and I take that responsibility seriously, striving each day to meet and honor the trust they place in me. My ultimate goal as an educator is to help students grow not only academically, but personally—to leave my classroom as more confident readers, stronger writers, and better individuals than when they first arrived.