Mcard004

Introduction:

Hello wiki-readers! My name is Marta Cardoza and I am a Junior at Old Dominion University finishing up my Interdisciplinary Studies Pre-K to 6 degree. Ever since I was in elementary school I wanted to pursue a field dealing with children. During seventh and eighth grade, while trying to decide between elementary teaching and pediatrics, I began to volunteer in programs held at Thelma Crenshaw Elementary School in Chesterfield County and vacation bible school at St. Augustine Catholic Church. Pediatrics soon seemed impossible due to my fear of needles. in high school I began to observe elementary teachers during summer sessions where I realized my focus would be kindergarten students. It would be a dream come true if I work at any of the schools after graduation.

On a personal note, I was born in El Salvador and moved to the United States with my parents when I was two. I have visited El Salvador since the initial departure and I enjoy every visit! I can always remember the fresh fruit, family time, and different culture that it has to offer. Upon my return I appreciate the struggle my parents went through to offer my young sister and myself a bilingual experience.

Philosophy of Education:

Through the use of various activities I am hoping to have the students learn the content taught. Understanding the needs of students should be a teacher's priority. In a kindergarten class teachers often struggle to decifer whether a student has special needs, but it takes various observation activities to determine the need.