My educational philosophy is built upon four core tenets, developed over a lifetime of diverse professional experiences and more than a decade of classroom practice: a career-oriented academic approach, service learning as a conduit to social justice, a commitment to academic rigor, and the fostering of a positive and supportive learning environment.
My extensive professional history, which includes military intelligence (linguist) and trades, reinforces the need for language acquisition and cultural fluency in the global market. In the classroom, I design objectives that guide students to connect their passions to professional life, preparing them for interviews, internships, and global contracting. I utilize service learning, informed by my work in Honduras and observation of programs in Peru, to promote leadership and collaboration, often encouraging students to design their own social justice projects.
I ensure students develop deep language acquisition through academic rigor and immersion, requiring them to take ownership of their learning by developing personal study skills (like those I used to learn Russian and Spanish). This practice is supported by ongoing formative, summative, and diagnostic assessment.
Crucially, I prioritize a positive learning environment where emotional safety is paramount, especially when students must embrace confusion and vulnerability. I establish structure through consistent routines and celebrate successes. My classroom management is adaptive, using one-on-one or small-group speaking activities and varying assessments (including skits and text analysis) to meet individual learning styles and ensure every student is engaged.
.Core Competencies
Student Advising & Support: Proven ability to mentor and advise students through academic and personal challenges as a teacher and coach.
Administrative & Technical Skills: Skilled in managing day-to-day operations, coordinating events, and quickly mastering new software platforms.
International & Cross-Cultural Expertise: Extensive experience living abroad in Latin America and training in multiple languages, with a deep understanding of diverse cultures.
Event & Project Management: Experienced in organizing and executing large-scale events and projects, from managing a soccer camp company to leading curriculum transitions.
Crisis & Problem Management: Trained to handle high-stress situations with discipline and adaptability, honed through military service and years of working with students.
Communication: Fluent in Spanish, with a strong ability to build rapport and communicate effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.
Professional Experience
Spanish Teacher, ESL Teacher, & Educator | Various Schools (2001 – 2016)
VIEW MY TEACHING CV
Served as a primary point of contact and general advisor for students and parents, guiding them through educational journeys.
Led the transition for a World Language Department to an IB curriculum, demonstrating leadership and strategic planning skills.
Cultivated an engaging and supportive learning environment, utilizing strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Founder, Fairo Sport | Spokane, WA (March 2016 – Present)
Established and managed all operational aspects of a youth soccer camp company, including customer service, marketing, and event organization.
Oversaw all administrative tasks and utilized online platforms for registration and communication.
Club Soccer Coach | Seattle, WA (November 2017 – June 2022)
Coached and mentored youth athletes, developing strong leadership and team-building skills.
Coordinated and managed training sessions and competitions.
US Army & National Guard | Fort Hood, TX & Fort Carson, CO (April 1997 – April 2004)
Developed strong discipline and problem-solving skills in diverse and demanding environments.
Honorable Discharge as a Voice Interceptor/Linguist, showcasing training in high-stakes environments.
Education & Certifications
M.Ed. in Education | La Salle University
BA in Spanish Literature | University of Colorado
TEFL Certificate | Arcadia University
Certificate in Russian Linguistics | Defense Language Institute
Soccer Coaching | USSF-C, UEFA-C, USC-National, TOVO