As an educator, I believe in creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every student feels comfortable and excited to learn. I seek to remove obstacles and create opportunities for people from all backgrounds, by recognizing that social and cultural barriers exist and intersect. My aim isn’t for equality, but equity. Creating a space where each student’s unique needs are met so that nobody is ignored or left behind. During my time teaching at Camino Del Río/River Road Elementary, I instructed students with varying levels of proficiency in both English and Spanish. Keeping this in mind, my lesson plans and instructions were tailored so that regardless of their language background, each student could feel included and confident participating in class activities. All important directions and worksheets were translated in each language. When my lesson plan required online resources, I made sure a translation of each webpage was available in Spanish to those who required it. I also personally checked in with students who I knew were limited to only Spanish, making sure no student was left behind. 

Now more than ever, environmental education is crucial for building a safe and equitable future. We owe it to the next generation, and to the world to properly prepare students for life after school. I believe in equipping students with critical thinking and problem solving skills so that they will succeed both in academics and beyond the classroom. Children learn the most when they are excited and having fun, not when they are forced to learn. I aim to foster a sense of wonder in my students, by pushing them to think creatively and creating meaningful lessons that connect to their lives and interests. For example, at Camino Del Río many of the students were obsessed with soccer, so to help them remember different bird species I used soccer club badges that had birds. Now whenever they watch Inter Miami, they will think of the Great White Heron. I will provide encouragement and support, along with clear expectations and reasonable goals for my students.