About me
I am excited to be returning to HCS for my second year. I graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Oceanography and Environmental Science. I also received my Masters in Teaching through the Woodrow Wilson Fellowship at Montclair State University. Prior to beginning my teaching career at HCS, I worked as an environmental scientist for approximately 3 years and as an AP Biology teacher. When I am not working, I love to SCUBA dive, and I spent a summer helping restore coral reefs in the Florida Keys. I also love sports and going on walks with my dog Brody. I look forward to the upcoming year!
Teaching Philosophy
“Children must be taught how to think, not what to think.”
-Margaret Mead
Teachers affect students to a much greater extent than just in the classroom. We have the ability to make a difference in a student’s education as well as in his or her own personal life. The more I understand how students learn and how the classroom environment affects them, the more I believe in establishing mutual respect and open communication with my current and future students.
As a teacher, I set myself the goal of establishing a safe, friendly and caring environment for my students. I think it is crucial to teach the students respect by example and further help their growth and development in that similar matter. It is important to remember that students can bring valuable knowledge to the classroom. Their previous experiences can be connected to new material. Through this process, we can aid the understanding of this new material, which can then go from foreign and challenging to familiar. I will guide and challenge students to greater understanding of the topic, and modify lessons to students' need and feedback. |
I will use my time to enhance the students’ performance in the classroom by committing to reach for the highest level of academic excellence. I believe that these goals can be achieved by holding high expectations for all students and working alongside them through perseverance and dedication.
I will further contribute to Hoboken Charter School’s goal civic responsibility by implementing it as much as possible within the science curriculum as well as being present in community-wide efforts. I look forward to working with all of you, please reach out with any questions. Thank you, Ms. Peña |