About
Over the past decade I helped to develop and run a specialized program serving immigrant, refugee, and asylum-seeking high school students. I wore many hats- classroom teacher (ELD Geography), program coordinator, community activist, and policy lobbyist for the needs of newcomers at the state and local level. In May 2020, I will transition from this role in one school district to independently consult for any school or district aiming to better meet the educational, linguistic, cultural, and social-emotional needs of students new to the United States.
Inspiring Quote
“Once social change begins, it cannot be reversed. You cannot uneducate the person who has learned to read. You cannot humiliate the person who feels pride. You cannot oppress the people who are not afraid any more. We have seen the future, and the future is ours.”- Cesar Chavez
Why did you choose to earn your MEd degree at USD?
The ease at which I could adjust the time needed to earn the degree around my personal and professional obligations.
What was your favorite part of the MEd online program?
Graduation! I encourage everyone to travel to San Diego and participate in person if possible. It was wonderful to meet those I had developed relationships with online in person.
In what ways has the USD MEd online degree program influenced your work as an educator?
This degree reaffirmed my dedication to social justice through education.
What advice do you have for students considering USD’s MEd online degree program?
I was skeptical myself. In hindsight, that discomfort and growth I experienced as a digital student was as beneficial to my career as the content itself. As I type this, we are experiencing distance learning due to COVID-19. My experience as a digital student has definitely made me a better online educator!
What are the top qualities about the USD MEd online degree program that you think really stand out and lead you to recommend it to others?
I never felt alone. I always felt supported. In the end, it was worth every moment of my time and every penny I spent. I have already talked two colleagues into earning their degree from USD and both of them feel the same.