I graduated from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ. I completed 2 degrees: a BA in Digital Film Production in 2019 and an AAS in Digital Arts in Tucson, AZ, in 2005. Additionally, I hold a teacher's practitioner license in the state of Louisiana, which allows me to teach Visual Arts. I completed my teacher preparation through Alternative Certification with ITeach Louisiana. I am currently working on completing my PLT Exam (Principles of Learning and Teaching) and the World Language pedagogy for Spanish to be fully certified. After completing my final exams, I would like to work towards obtaining my ESL (English as a Second Language) and CTE (Career Technical Education) certification, concluding with a Master of Fine Arts if possible.
My experience has been a rich tapestry woven with the diverse threads of countless young lives. For over ten years, I've had the privilege of guiding students across a spectrum of ages and backgrounds. My art certification has allowed me to cultivate my creative expression and visual thinking skills, fostering a deeper understanding of the world around us. Working in a bilingual setting with students has been particularly illuminating. It's taught me the profound importance of differentiated instruction, visual supports, and culturally responsive teaching. I've learned to be adaptable, patient, and keenly attuned to the nuances of language acquisition. Whether it's scaffolding vocabulary, celebrating the unique traditions students bring from their home cultures, or simply offering a reassuring smile and extra time to process information, my experience has been about creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. I've facilitated countless projects, guided discussions, and celebrated individual achievements, always striving to build strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
My underlying teaching philosophy is rooted in learner-centered and inquiry-based instruction. I believe in fostering a supportive and engaging environment where students are active participants in their learning journey. Drawing from my art certification, I emphasize visual literacy as a crucial skill for navigating and understanding the world. For language learners, this visual emphasis becomes even more critical for comprehension and expression.
My tutoring style is adaptive, patient, and focused on individual needs. I strive to:
*Understand the student's unique learning style and background, especially considering the diverse experiences of language learners.
*Provide clear, concise explanations, often incorporating visual aids and real-world examples.
*Break down complex concepts into manageable steps.
*Encourage active participation and critical thinking through questioning and discussion.
*Celebrate progress and build confidence.
*Integrate artistic expression as a tool for understanding and communication whenever appropriate.
Essentially, I aim to be a supportive guide, empowering students to become confident, independent learners who can see and express themselves in multifaceted ways.
Drawing upon my extensive knowledge base and background, I can offer support in a variety of areas, including:
*Visual Arts: Art history, art techniques, elements of art, design principles, visual literacy, and creative problem-solving.
*Language Arts: Reading comprehension, writing skills, grammar, vocabulary development (with a sensitivity to the needs of language learners).
*ESL Support: Language acquisition strategies, vocabulary building through visuals, cultural integration through art, and understanding academic language.
*Spanish Support: As a native Spanish speaker and a former ESL student, I understand the needs of bilingual students, as well as the process of language acquisition, which enables me to effectively understand, interpret, and explain language nuances to the students.
*Interdisciplinary Connections: Exploring how art integrates with other subjects like history, science, and social studies, to name a few.
While I don't have a favorite subject to teach, I find the intersection of Visual Arts and Language particularly engaging and impactful. This is where my capabilities truly shine, aligning with my passions. The visual arts offer a powerful and accessible bridge for language learners. It transcends linguistic barriers, offering a means of expression, communication, and understanding that can be incredibly empowering. Witnessing a second language student grasp a complex concept through a visual representation or confidently articulate their ideas about a piece of art is deeply satisfying. Furthermore, exploring the rich artistic traditions from diverse cultures within the second language context creates a vibrant and inclusive learning environment. It's about unlocking understanding and fostering creativity simultaneously a truly dynamic and rewarding process.
In a way, my interest lies in understanding and connecting with the multifaceted world that my students inhabit, allowing me to better assist and engage with them on a deeper level. Just as you find inspiration and rejuvenation outside the classroom, I continuously explore and learn from the information available to me, enriching my ability to support your educational endeavors.
