ABOUT ME    I grew up in beautiful  Mt. Shasta, California which is located about 3 1/2 hours north of Sacramento.  In high school I helped coach gymnastics and teach dance routines to other high school and junior high students.  These endeavors led me to my pursuit of becoming an elementary school teacher.  I also completed a community service learning project in Southern California which solidified my desire to become a teacher.  Working with students and learning together about their community was so rewarding, especially because I am deeply connected to the community where I am from.    I transfered to UC Davis and completed my B. A. degree in English with a minor in Education in June 2005.  I decided to take a year off from school in order to gain more teaching experience.  During this year I worked at a small private school in the Sacramento area as an instructional aide.  I had many different responsibilities and experiences at this job including; working one on one with students with special needs, substituting for multiple grades, working with preschool age students, and implementing recreational activities.  Every experience was great, but what was greatest of all was watching students receive enjoyment from learning.    In August 2006 I began the intensive Multiple Subject Credential/ M. A Education program at UC Davis, California.  I have learned so much during this year from my coursework, instructors, resident teachers and most importantly the students who I have been fortunate enough to work with.  This year I have found that the three main elements of successful learning for students are: a positive learning environment, involving students interests, home life, and culture into lesson plans and scaffolding instruction to meet all students' needs is beneficial for all students.    I have also learned this year that support from families makes a huge difference in a person's life.  I have been lucky enough to have received undying support from my husband and the rest of my family.  Below is a picture taken at our wedding day with the rest of our family.  Teaching Philosophy Home Page