Words of Inspiration

I had the privilege of reading about so many great professionals in the field of education. These quotes have been very inspirational to me.

"Developmentally appropriate practices are ways of teaching that vary for or adapt to the age and experience of the individual learner. So fundamentally the definition has not changed. Instead, it has been expanded to include the fact that not only do you have to consider children as individuals, but you also have to consider children as members of groups with their own cultural identities." Susan Bredekamp

"The passion to make sure that all children are taught in environments and ways that truly nurture their ability to grow and develop to their fullest ability. "Louise Derman-Sparks

"Working in early childhood is such a unique opportunity to work with young children." Sandy Escobido

Personal Childhood Web

There have been many people that have nurtured me in life but the people above have been the most influential.  Here is a quick glimpse of who they are:

Mom: A retired teacher and principal in Duval county schools. She has been influential to me because she carried me for 9 months in her belly, raised, fed, educated me, provided financial support, gave me spiritual guidance, and loves me despite of my flaws.

Dad: A retired computer programer. He means so much to me because he always gives me spiritual guidance, listens to me, provides financial support when in need, provides great advice about technology and fixing things around the house, and has always been there for me.

Mrs. Gray: I am not sure where she is right now but she is retired. She was the best teacher I had. She was my 5th grade teacher and she made learning lots of fun.

Grandma: She meant the world to me and died too soon. She died when I was really young but they time I spent with her was the best. I loved her stories about her life and the family. She was very loving and caring.

The people in my life made me feel special because they showed me everyday how much they cared by  being there for me during hard times. They motivated me to be the best that I could be and they continue to be influential in my life. If it wasn't for my parents I would not have been motivated to go to college. If it wasn't for my teachers and my grandmother I would not be encouraged to want to help others who can not help themselves. I also want to add that the most influential person that gets me through my life is God. He surprises me everyday with his mercy and generosity.

Passion for teaching

As an educator you have to be passionate about children. Here are just a few things that keep me going every day and motivates me to become the leader in education.

Favorite quote about children:
"No one has yet fully realized the wealth of sympathy, kindness and generosity hidden in the soul of a child. The effort of every true education should be to unlock that treasure." Emma Goldman

My favorite children's book has to be The Dot because the child in the book just shows how every child can be creative. It just takes the right person to open up their creativity. I also love this book because it encourages children who think that they are not an artist to be motivated to look deeper inside their creative side.

I have had so many children to touch my heart but the one story of a child who touched my heart the most would have to be a seven year old child who was an honor roll student every semester and who was extremely bright in mathematics. I found out that he and his mother were homeless and were living in a shelter. He encouraged me to be the best educator I can because if he can get through his obstacles in his life and go to school everyday, I know I can teach bright students like himself.