09/25/2026
So many things go into being an educator. I think back to the teachers who made a difference in my life, and none of the memories that formed me had anything to do with curriculum. The first classroom I ever walked into was a Montessori Pre-K class in Arlington. I was 4 years old and only spoke Spanish at home, so I didn't feel confident in my ability to speak English all day. I remember being worried that I wouldn't be understood until I walked into my class. My teacher was a Latina with curly black hair, round glasses, and a beautiful smile. I instantly knew I was going to be okay. I saw myself in my teacher! That's the feeling I think J gives her students in her SPED class. She lights up when she talks about them, and celebrates her culture and heritage in her class.
Did you know that, of all master's degree holders in the U.S., only 12% are Latinas?
Well, J will soon be a part of that 12% 🏆
