Current job title: Social studies teacher / Technology High School
Local: 481 / Newark Teachers Union
Union position: AFTNJ Pre-K to 12 Vice President (2018-present)
My union story: Being a part of a teachers union means that we get to quality control and solve problems that impact a vital facet of our society. This is particularly important given the role that education plays in urban communities like Newark. As part of a professional organization, I share in the mission of constant improvement and adaptation to improve outcomes for children. As I entered into this district, we were slowly being removed from state control. Remnants of that era exist in the administrative philosophies and policies, but I’m proud to be a small part in that transition back to local control
As a union leader, I get a voice in these conversations about the future of education, shared in the common vision of excellence and professionalism.
Career highlights/achievements: My career is pretty short! But I would say being offered and teaching an Advance Placement U.S. History class has been the highlight so far. It was a great opportunity to see what the highest expectations are in history education, giving students the opportunity for course credit, and to execute my vision of the college board curriculum (all while adhering to the teacher evaluation).
Interests/hobbies: Reading books on history and playing video games help me relax.
Looking ahead: I want to improve my Advance Placement U.S. History scores, bring more projects into my classroom, and trickle down some of the tools from AP into my college prep classes.