Current job title: Bilingual support teacher / South Street School, Newark
Local: Newark Teachers Union / AFT Local 481
Union positions: NTU building rep (2023 to present)
NTU vice president (2024 to present)
AFT delegate (2025 to present)
My union story: I believe there is power in numbers. If someone has an issue, I want to make sure they can feel supported the way I have been supported in the past. Teachers who feel supported are more successful, and it helps the climate and culture of the building, which in turn helps all the students to grow. So when my building representative retired, I decided to start there.
Career highlights/achievements: I have taught in Newark for more than two decades. I have taught varied subjects at several grade levels at the elementary level. I am a certified reading specialist and currently working with bilingual Portuguese students.
Interests/hobbies: Reading, photography, gardening, traveling