Janene was born and raised in Palos Verdes, CA and currently lives in Los Angeles. Growing up in a close-knit family has shaped who she is today. The “Chan Clan” is always there to cheer her on and offer advice when needed. Her family, friends and boyfriend Tyler are her biggest supporters and would agree that Janene has a strong sense of humor, and often laughs at her own jokes. She likes good eats, soaking up the sun, pilates, and dancing! She loves being spontaneous and finds that the best moments in life have been unplanned.
While attending the University of California, Santa Barbara Janene worked for Girls Incorporated, a non- profit organization that provided an after school program for under privileged girls (grades K-8). Girls Inc., offered a literacy, theater arts, music, culture diversity and science curriculum-based program. After receiving her B.A. in Sociology from the UCSB in 2005, she was hired as the Computer Teacher at Point Vicente Elementary in Palos Verdes, CA, where she worked with each class grades K-5 and developed the technology curriculum for the school. After working for a year at the Point Vicente, Janene was hooked on being in the classroom and decided to pursue her dream of becoming an elementary school teacher.
She attended California State University, Long Beach and received a Multiple Subjects Credential with CLAD in December 2007. Soon after, she was immediately hired as a 2nd grade teacher at Dolores Huerta Elementary in Lennox, CA. In August 2008, she was then hired at LFCSA as a 3rd grade teacher. This is now her 4th year at LFCSA and she is excited to begin a fresh new year as a 1st grade teacher.
Janene always envisioned herself making a difference in the world by igniting the curiosity of many children and giving them opportunities to learn though all avenues. Her overall teaching philosophy is to guide children in making connections to the real- world and express themselves as individuals. Every individual has a different learning style, and she knew she wanted to be at a school that opened the doors to endless possibilities. She strongly believes in collaboration and hands on experiences and loves nurturing their confidence to try anything and everything. Janene has discovered that being a teacher is a profession that allows for self-reflection and growth. Her students are constantly inspiring her to achieve more, and she always strives to encourage students with a “can- do” attitude as well. She hopes to continue to inspire every child to reach every unimaginable goal, become self-confident, and value the role being a life-long learner. Janene thinks it is extremely important to be flexible and willing to accept all ideas when working in a collaborative teaching team.
