I think I have probably been a performer for my entire life. I started dancing at the ripe young age of four. By high school, I was determined to make a career in acting. I studied Theater Arts under Jean Korf at Rio Hondo College before transferring to Whittier College, where I received a BA in Theater Arts. I also poured myself into art and history. After working for several years in Hollywood, and having two children, I returned to Whittier College where I received my teaching credential.
In twelve years of teaching I have learned that the old adage of never letting them see you smile until after Christmas is just plain wrong! I believe that students should see their teacher smile. They should enjoy coming to class each day, because class is a place of acceptance and discovery. I want them to be engaged in their learning. I want them to be curious about the world in which they live and be fully involved in the process of learning. I want them to ask questions. I want them to admit when they don’t understand something because it is okay to be incorrect. It is perfectly acceptable to make mistakes.
I do not believe in punitive punishments. I try to teach students that every action has a consequence. If I can empower them to make good decisions, everyone wins. They are learning how to behave in society, and how to become valuable, contributing members of this society. It is not only my job to teach them the standards, but also to teach them great behavior.
Ideally, our experience together will be one where we all share in a great journey of understanding, questioning, and discovery.
When asked if I have a master’s degree, I often answer that my master’s degree is in “Momology”. I enjoy spending time with my two children, Vince and Natalie. Vince is an art major at Fullerton College and Natalie is a junior in high school. In my “free” time I enjoy going for very long walks or hiking in the local hills. I also enjoy oil painting, going to plays with friends and reading. I have been a Girl Scout leader for over eight years, and I enjoy taking them to concerts, arboretums and museums.
