What subject do you teach?
Art 1
What college did you attend?
York University, Humber College and Centennial College all in Toronto, Ontario (Canada) I have degrees in Art, Philosophy, English, Education and Fitness & Health
Where did you go to high school?
Port Credit Secondary School in Mississauga, Ontario (Canada)
Where were you born?
Redwood City, CA
How many years have you been in education?
4
What are your pet peeves?
I don’t want to give away my kryptonite, haha! Being tapped on the shoulder is definitely one.
Who is your hero?
Emo Phillips (comedian), Erin Gruell (famous, inspiring teacher “Freedom Writers”) and Sylvia Plath (author) (I just am so fascinated by her journals and how she sees the world. I have never been so captivated by a literary work! I also think her daughter’s poetry is better…)
What is your current favorite song?
I love disco music! “Rasputin” by Boney M up there. I also really love Puscifer’s “V is for Versatile” album (Puscifer is Maynard’s (sings for Tool and A Perfect Circle) another band).
Who was your most influential teacher and why?
My most influential teacher was Ms. Lowe. She taught English and Media Studies. She was very supportive, but also pushed me and gave lots of feedback. I improved a lot during her class and always loved how passionate she was about the subjects she taught. For example, she was very involved in activism, so when she taught about activism in a media studies unit, she had first-hand stories about the issues we were discussing! I still keep in touch with her.
What is your favorite meal?
Sushi
What is your gas station order?
Slushy and nuts or an ice cream sandwich
The ideal vacation is…
Where I can explore and be immersed in a new culture. I loved visiting Japan and exploring Kyoto and Tokyo. I can sit on a beach here; I want an adventure when I travel!
A student needs…
Patience, compassion and motivation. Although it is cliché, us teachers have a saying: high standards, high support. By holding students to high standards, students can achieve more than they knew they could! This helps to build confidence, which lays the foundation for students to become the best version of themselves.
A teacher is…
In charge of educating, supporting and helping to shape the future generation.