INSTRUCTOR PROFILE:
I grew up in the Midwest in a large Mexican American family. I went to high school in Waukesha, WI and graduated twice from University of Wisconsin: Milwaukee - first with a Bachelors in Elementary Ed 1-6 and Bilingual Education, then again with a Masters degree in Educational Psychology. I also have 30 plus post masters credits in various social emotional topics, like Stress Management, Trauma, Bullying, Resiliency and Grief.
I have spent the last 28 years working with students in a variety of capacities. I started out as a Bilingual Elementary Teacher, teaching 5th grade for 7.5 years. After I finished my Masters degree, I became a School Counselor. I worked in a Bilingual K-6 for 7.5 years and, after a move to MN, in Middle School (grades 6-8) for 10 years. I also spent time as a Substitute teacher, Preschool Spanish teacher, an Adult English as a Second Language teacher, and a Parent Educator.
Throughout those first years as a classroom teacher, it became very apparent to me that too many students were not able to reach their true potential due to non-educational roadblocks. They needed help coping with other factors, like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, social skills, family issues/changes, and executive functioning skills. Helping a student through these types of roadblocks became a true passion for me. Students needed a safe person/space to discuss and work on these issues and I wanted to be that person and to provide the space.
As a recent AZ transplant, I am really excited to explore this beautiful state and to build the next chapter of my life here. I enjoy reading, organizing and traveling. I am hoping to get much better at being active. I have 3 adult children and will no doubt spend much time keeping up with their busy lives!
Here at Peak Academics, I support students grades 3 and older. I can help with both academics and executive functions. I am especially good at building strong rapport with students and families and look forward to helping students reach their true potential.
TESTIMONIAL:
Coming soon…