This is one in a series of Q&A’s with employees new to Denair Unified in 2023-24.

Family: Husband, Davide; daughter, Nelinha

School: Denair Middle School 

Subject taught: Moderate/severe special education teacher

Experience and education: I worked at a day program with individuals with behavioral support needs for four years. I was a 1-1 paraprofessional in the moderate/severe special education class at Denair High School for two school years for two students. I received my BA in liberal arts at CSU Stanislaus in 2018.

What attracted you to Denair? Denair reminded me of the school I went to. A small community that is united and wants the best for its students. 

What most inspires you about teaching? Making a difference in our students’ lives and seeing the growth from each individual student. 

What is a challenge you look forward to tackling this year? A challenge I look forward to tackling this year as a first-year teacher is learning the curriculum. 

What is your favorite teaching tool or activity? A favorite teaching tool is using the classroom money daily and using the classroom store for positive reinforcement at the end of the week. 

What do you want your students to remember? I want my students to remember I will always advocate for them and their needs, and I want them to know I will always seek inclusion for my students. 

How can parents support what you do? Parents can support what I do by communicating any question or concerns they have. I believe in working as a team with parents to best support their student. 

What would surprise people about your job? This job can be hard, but there is so much reward that comes with it, too. 

What do you do for fun? I enjoy hanging out with my little family, cooking and baking, and being near the beach.