What are you teaching now?

ESOL Social Studies.

What were hardest classes that you’ve taught? Why?

Either English or reading. It’s not the subject matter but the students. There are so many different languages with so many different levels. That’s the hard thing about teaching because there are so many standards. It’s hard to moderate teaching in individual’s needs.

What are some challenges you face as an educator?

There are so many things that are hard. Time management. There are so many demands–administration and inspections–but you still have to get up and teach five classes. And, being prepared. You never know if the copier is gonna be down.

In your opinion, what makes a good teacher?

I think someone who is willing to break down — whatever the subject is — for students to understand. I will go to a plan B or C for their needs. Like, I write almost all of my materials and try to have a lot of hands-on activities.

What kinds of students do you appreciate?

Hard working, kind, and polite ones. Students who are tardy or think they’re better than everybody drive me crazy!

If you could create a class about anything, what would it be about?

Something integrated with films. Films with literature and history. It would have a lot of analysis.

If you could change anything about America’s public education, what would it be?

One of the things is that American people has to have better view  and attitude towards education. They need to respect education — but then not many are very educated. Smoking, domestic abuse, or anything negative can go away if people are just educated. I am not trying to be overly idealistic, but if you get fully educated, those things can be eliminated.

Fully funding education in a better way. Changing the pay structure for teachers. Like, we need to rethink the school year…have almost a year-round school schedule. I feel like teachers, nowadays, are working or teaching harder than before, but there is this huge disparity.

What is your view on higher education today?

I am very pro-higher education. There’s a bumper sticker that says “My kid beat up your honor student.” There are many Americans that still think and believe in anti-intellectual or against in pursuing higher education.

What motivates you to become a better teacher?

Learning about the students’ background and where they come from. For example, I just ordered a ton of books from Amazon. The books are about different cultures and history of other countries.

What makes you happy?

My dogs.