...Students should feel like they're part of the learning process: rather than me droning on and on about a topic, I work with students to help them understand topics in new ways, through games, audiovisual materials, or just by talking about how these topics might relate to our daily lives. I'm pa... (read more)
...Most of all, however, I focus on the absolute necessity of being a good writer. I joke/brag about being able to produce a profound essay on even the silliest, most mundane topic - whether it be a donut, a paper cup or a rap song. It is this kind of writing confidence that successful students ne... (read more)
...In 2007, I started my own reading and writing program in the Bushwick neighborhood for immigrant students of all ages. My book was published by HarperCollins in 2020. It won the Dolores Huerta Prize from the International Latino Book Awards, and the Hornblower Prize from the New York City Book Awards. (read more)
Both of my parents majored in English when they were in college, and they passed much of their knowledge on to me throughout my childhood. As a result, English was always my best subject in Elementary and High School. I love the English language, along with its nuances and its quirks. (read more)