About Me:

I hold degrees in history and anthropology and am pursuing a Single Subject Teaching Credential in Social Sciences, alongside a Master’s Degree in History at Fresno State University. I hold a current substitute permit for Clovis Unified School District and will complete my teaching credential program in May 2024.

I am interested in teaching Social Sciences at the High School level. I would love to participate in History Day and new Ethnic Studies programs. I am interested in developing elective classes in California History, Folklore, Archeology, and other topics. Additionally, I would enjoy leading history tours abroad with students during the summer.

Hands-On Experience:

An exciting highlight of my academic journey includes participating in archaeological excavations at Miwok sites with Fresno State. This hands-on experience has deepened my appreciation for preserving and understanding our shared local history. My anthropology background makes me a great candidate for teaching California’s new Ethnic Studies classes.

Teaching Philosophy:

As an educator, my unwavering commitment is to cultivate inclusive, immersive, and engaging learning experiences that go beyond the dissemination of dates and names. Central to my teaching philosophy is the idea of bringing history to life by blending theoretical knowledge with real-world experiences, all while nurturing critical thinking skills in my students. I firmly believe that a successful education goes beyond rote memorization; it involves actively engaging with historical concepts and understanding their relevance to contemporary life.

In my approach, I emphasize the significance of information literacy as a crucial skill for students in the 21st century. I advocate for teaching this skill through the thoughtful evaluation of primary sources. By delving into firsthand accounts, documents, and artifacts, students not only gain a deeper understanding of historical events but also develop the ability to critically assess and interpret information. This process empowers them to question, analyze, and form well-informed perspectives—an essential skill set in navigating the complexities of our interconnected world.

In essence, my teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that education should inspire curiosity, foster a genuine understanding of history, and equip students with the tools needed to think critically and engage with the world around them. I am dedicated to creating an educational environment where students not only acquire knowledge but also develop the skills necessary for a lifetime of learning and meaningful participation in society.

Connecting with Communities:

Beyond academia, I actively seek connections within the local community. Having my children at Clovis Unified Schools has established strong ties with teachers, administration, students, and families in the area.

My diverse background as a food influencer involved working with California agricultural commodities, developing recipes, and hosting classes. Collaborations with brands like Producers Dairy, California Grown, and Food Network have enriched my understanding of local culture through family and food.

As a baker, I've built relationships through positive interactions, creating birthday and wedding cakes for thousands of families in the Central Valley. Volunteering with Cake 4 Kids, a program making birthday cakes for children in foster care has also deepened my ties to the local community.

What You'll Find Here:

Explore my web page to discover insights into my academic achievements, teaching philosophy, and hands-on experiences. Join me on a journey through the past, connecting the dots between history and anthropology.