Hello:
I have a master's degree in humanities with a focus in journalism and a graduate certificate in professional writing. What painting is to an artist, writing is to me! I absolutely love to write. When I compose and edit a document, it feels as if I'm piecing together a fun puzzle, so it's an honor to work as the Editor-in-Chief of Pear Magazine Online, an organics lifestyle magazine.
I have facilitated Creative Writing and Art Enrichment classes to elementary school children in Orange Park, Florida. To online adult students, I taught Written Communication at Western International University Online (WIU). Here is feedback to me from some of my former WIU students:
~ “Penny: You are indeed a gifted instructor and are a credit to the profession. You truly have been blessed with the ability to bring the best out in those that are lucky enough to have you as their instructor. God Bless you and yours.”
~ “Again, thank you! It has been great having you for a teacher, and all the people that get you in the future will be very lucky. Good luck in everything you do.”
~ “I wanted to take this final opportunity to tell you how much I appreciate and value your positive feedback and great teaching style. You have made the last nine weeks one of the most positive times in my life. This is no small feat, since you are aware of the chemical imbalances I experience causing mood swings, especially around the holidays. I feel that you were placed in my life at this particular time for a purpose bigger than that of teaching me writing styles, perhaps to teach me something more...I thank God for you and will continue to think of you and your family with warmth and love, and pray that all good things are given to you. I will miss your input in my life.....God Bless!”
~ “Penny, I am not sure if it's lack of sleep or nerves, but I was not expecting this. I am typing this while I am crying. Your words touch every part of me. In a sense, I feel like a child who is receiving praise from their parent. I honestly had not thought that I had done this correctly, but with a little hard work and great encouragement along the way, I have proven myself wrong. What a great feeling! Besides my boys, I'm not sure I have ever had any form of inspiration in my life, that is until now. Penny, I will remember you forever and safe guard every word you have ever typed to me. I have not only learned valuable information that will help me in the business world, I have learned to not doubt myself. It is an amazing feeling. Thank You Again!”
~ “Penny, “It was a pleasure learning and sharing with you. Thank you so much for every little word you have ever typed to me and everyone. I am sure this will not be the last time I am in contact with you, as I will always be in need of your wonderful advice and words of encouragement.”
~ “Thank you so much for this week’s feedback. I will remember you for all of my classes to come. You are a true leader, teacher and an inspiration to all. Thank you so much!”
In addition to writing, I have a heart for education, so I welcome the opportunity to encourage students and help them increase confidence and reach their educational goals.
By the way, I have also received the Level 1 and 2 certificates for the Radiant Child Yoga Program (RCYP). I enjoy helping youth to experience how yoga can improve flexibility -- and focus, too! In July 2008, I was a guest on "The Morning Show" of WJXT where I provided tips to Jacksonville parents about the benefits of children's yoga. I demonstrated "Super Brain Yoga," an exercise that many teachers are implementing in the classroom to help children improve concentration and behavior. "Super Brain Yoga" is a simple breathing and squatting exercise that is fun to do. For any student who is interested, I would be happy to combine some fun yoga postures with an academic tutoring session. Students will feel the difference!
"A, B, C -- Come Look For Me" is another creative outpouring of mine on behalf of children. This children's book I wrote teaches early literacy skills in a hide-and-seek kind of way.
I have enjoyed sharing a bit about myself with you. Thank you for "listening," and I look forward to hearing from you.
Remember to always believe in yourself! Never give up...
Yours sincerely,
Penny Powell