My family and I have moved from Massachusetts to New York. Massachusetts, and specifically Medford MA where I taught 14 of the last 16 years, will always have a piece of my heart. But, it was time to move on.
I recently completed the NYC Online Teacher Application in which a short personal statement was required. I thought I’d share it here. Enjoy.
It is 2003 and I am looking at the stars on a clear night. "I want to change my major from mathematics to astrophysics," I think to myself. The universe is so beautiful, and as a young undergraduate I am simply fascinated. Although today I am still in awe of the night sky and all that lies behind it, I would not change my major during my time at Villanova University. Instead, I vowed to seek meaningful work that would directly impact those "down here" on Earth. I chose to help improve the society around me instead of keeping my head above the clouds. That was the moment I decided to become a math teacher.
Since 2007 when I graduated with a Bachelor's of Mathematics, I have taught thirteen years of middle school math and three years of high school math in my home state of Massachusetts. I have also gained two more degrees in education -- a master's and a doctorate -- to further improve my craft. I have helped students succeed in their coursework, perform well on important tests, and strengthen their love of learning.
I recently moved to New York. I currently seek employment as a middle school math teacher because that is the license that is transferable to New York. However, in Massachusetts I am also eligible to teach high school, which I am happy to do in New York if the opportunity arises. Regardless of grade level, I am searching for a new professional home: a community of learners that is diverse and energetic in both staff and student body. I work best with students who are unsure of themselves, but who are curious of the world around them (this, I have learned, can manifest itself in many ways!)
I am dedicated to both the art and science of teaching, and continue to read and network in order to grow professionally each year. I am communicative with guardians, eager to collaborate with colleagues, and extremely organized and reflective with my work. Most importantly, I believe in being a "warm demander" -- an educator who insists on asking students for their best effort and can do so without turning them away. This is but one of my strengths.
I look forward to sharing more with you.