The English Teacher
About
I am a CA-certified Education Specialist and have been teaching in this field for the past five years. I also am credentialed to teach English at the high school level. During the regular school year, I work at a high school in RUSD.
I enjoy teaching reading, specifically to readers who are struggling. I believe that the earlier a reading problem is identified, the easier it is to provide remediation. Reading intervention is my passion!
I also have my Reading and Literacy added authorization (specialization added to my teaching credentials).
I enjoy watching students progress. Sometimes there are reasons why students struggle (such as a specific learning disability), and other times they just need more time with explicit instruction in reading. In both instances, learning to read or just getting better is never impossible. I don't believe that all students learn the same! I enjoy modifying my curriculum to adapt to each student's individual needs.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to get to know a student and make sure they are comfortable with me, so rapport building is important. Typically I do this by going through a set of slides that introduces me and certain topics (family, favorite foods, etc.) which includes prompts for the student to also talk about themselves.
I also plan to do an assessment in order to gauge where the student is with their reading. This is important to determine how to proceed with each student. If your student has an IEP, the assessment completed by the school psychologist would also be helpful, however, you are not required to provide this to me!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a CA credential teacher in the areas of general education English and special education. These are two separate credentials. I am a practicing Education Specialist so I work with students who have IEPs. I am also working on my added authorization (supplement to my credential) in Reading and Literacy.
How did you get started teaching?
I always wanted to be a teacher, but started as a sports coach (volleyball) when I was in college. After college I ended up joining the Army, but once I was back home, I worked as a college recruiter until I became certified to teach.
What types of students have you worked with?
Most of my teaching time has been as an Education Specialist. This is where I discovered my love of teaching reading and reading intervention. As a general education English teacher, I worked at a continuation school.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My little girl started preschool this April!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Always make sure you or your student is comfortable with the tutor. You/She/he will learn so much more. Not all personality styles mesh to give the best learning environment! Don't be afraid to change things up if something isn't working!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Set high expectations for your tutor! It's OK to ask questions about how they will work with you or your child. Reading intervention and instruction is not a one-size-fits-all method; each struggling reader has different needs and it is important for parents to understand how to best support their learner.