What are a few of your successful ways of motivating students?

For many students, English is an intimidating class. They have to demonstrate vulnerability every time they write or express an opinion during a class discussion. Creating a safe environment where each student feels comfortable and confident is a priority; moreover, it allows the students to build relationships with each other and with me. Additionally, continuing to meet students where they are through interesting or suspenseful texts, short movie clips, and even music creates many opportunities for engagement and participation.

What is your favorite unit to teach and why?

A few years ago, my favorite unit to teach would easily have been College Essay Writing and I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings; however, last year it shifted to Hamlet. It is incredible to witness students connect and interact with a text that was written nearly 400 years ago and to see how its conflict and underlying issues still affect the world today. This unit ends with the students creating a soundtrack for the play in which they analyze particular plot points, characters, and lyrics to synthesize how each song reveals a new element about the play.

What are a few of your interests and hobbies?

One of my favorite hobbies is cooking! I love experimenting in the kitchen with new recipes and kitchen gadgets. Baking is a continual challenge for me, as the creations never come out looking as delicious as they appear in the cookbooks or online, but they usually taste delicious!