As the newest fourth grade teacher at Washington Elementary, I have the pleasure and opportunity to work with some of the best teachers, staff, and students in education. It is an exciting position and not one that I take lightly.

 

I received my Master's degree in Education from Northwestern University, through which I student taught in Winnetka and conducted a practicum observation in a Chicago Public School. My undergraduate degree from William and Mary was in International Relations and Global Studies. Those majors helped me understand the importance of education to our larger society as a whole and instilled the importance of global education in general. Using my background interest and knowledge, my Master's Project at Northwestern explored global citizenship in the elementary school.

 

My four main goals for my students are for them to become reflective, learn organization and responsibility, discover their skills and talents, and become good citizens and neighbors. To do this I try to make learning as authentic as possible, relate their learning to the outside world, and encourage students to ask why and develop their curiosity.

 

Teaching and helping others has always been a passion of mine. But my motivation in life has always stemmed from curiosity. I am fascinated by the world. I love learning, thinking, sharing my thoughts, and teaching. My curiosity has led me to have a slew of personal interests. I am an avid reader, writer, musician, artist, poet, martial artist, filmmaker, and dancer. I also love learning languages and have knowledge of Spanish, Arabic, and Bahasa (Malay and Indonesian). One of my favorite passions is travel (though I am trying to forgo air travel for cleaner transport like the train). I have been to Europe, South America, Central America, Asia, and the Middle East. I believe that my vast array of interests has and will help my students appreciate the world and its wonders.

 

I currently live in Chicago with my wife Mahallia.