Erin Belfils “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”
-Malcolm X |
Education |
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Background |
I grew up in Long Beach, California. I later moved to San Luis Obispo and received my bachelor of science in City and Regional Planning from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. From there I received two certifications to teach English as a second language and ultimately got my teaching credential from California State University Los Angeles. My own journey as a student has included unique educational experiences as an exchange student in both Ireland and Brazil, as an environmental field research student in Kenya, and as a college student studying in Thailand. I also taught at a Private school in Taiwan for two years. I believe these opportunities have provided me with additional insight into the cultural and language challenges experienced by many students. Upon returning home from teaching abroad I moved to Sonoma County and began my journey here at Piner-Olivet Union School district!
My personal goal for my classes is to recognize the uniqueness of all the students, challenge each of them, and ultimately help them grow to reach their full potential. I want to take students working at different levels and have them collaborate and develop together for the betterment of each individual. The impact of group work, where students help fellow students, changes each individual and transforms the atmosphere of the class as a whole. In my classroom, I want students to have freedom that allows for expression and creativity. Students should be able to experiment with likes and dislikes, and to recognize their strengths and weaknesses. As this evolves, the curriculum can be molded to each student’s learning style, leveraging strengths and addressing weaknesses, in an inclusive and supportive environment. |
