A retired, resurrected English, elementary, ESOL, middle school teacher, as well as university and college adjunct professor, I finally joined the ranks of high school teachers quite unexpectedly. While it is a long story I shall share at a later date, suffice it to say I fell in love with the students - I got it because I, too, am a second language learner. I, too, come from the culture of poverty. I, too, get the various cultures, as my family is a hybrid of many. With that said, students wanted me to write a book about a phrase I have posted on my classroom wall and one which I have them say with me as they leave my room....I am safe. I am good. I am loved. Is there anything else we need in life? So, let's move on, focus, and learn skills that will enable us to enjoy life more fully.
I have the privilege of age and diverse background. I find I am flexible, more understanding, less triggered, and so on by my amazing students. I am their "otra abuelita." I support them and nothing is more important than to help them feel loved and appreciated and worthwhile. I am Lola to them.
