I was born in Portugal and came to the United States at a very young age. My family moved around a lot so it was hard to get myself acclimated. I began my education in ESL programs and eventually tested out.
I spent my childhood wanting to teach and make a difference in others' lives. My teaching experience began at 15 when I became a Catechist. Since then I have focused on positions that dealt with teaching and children. Thanks to my parents persistence in my never losing my mother language, I am fluent in both Portuguese and English. Teaching 1st grade Portuguese in Kearny, NJ was a great experience filled with excitement especially when I saw the look of understanding and interest in their young eyes.
I also held a position as a Great Books Leader, a comprehensive program that promotes reading, sharing, and thinking to better understand passages and stories. During this program I worked with third graders from all different reading levels and abilities. In the end each group made a book with their own stories. Validating my theory that all children and adults can learn regardless of their learning abilities.
I have since become a wife, had three children and moved. Therefore I was unable to continue teaching Portuguese and Great Books. Now I am a substitute teacher, hold an associate's degree in Mathematics from Orange County Community College and am working towards my Education Certification 1-6 with a 7-9 extension in Mathematics from Mount Saint Mary College.
Don’t limit yourself. Many people limit themselves to what they think they can do. You can go as far as your mind lets you. What you believe, you can achieve.
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