Olivia Gombar

Background

About Olivia Gombar

I have been a successful teacher in Bridgeport for 42 years. Four times I have been nominated as a candidate for "Teacher of the Year." I have taught self contained elementary grades K-6 and also served as a library media specialist for 10 years at Curiale Middle School Grades K-8, St Andrew Parochial School K-8 in Bridgeport and at New Beginnings Family Academy K-8, Bridgeport Charter School. In my capacity as library media specialist at these various schools, I have served not only as a library specialist but also as a teacher. I am a teaching library media specialist. I used the library collection as my pallet to strengthen reading skills and an appreciation for literature. My work further entailed computer lab/multi-media instruction and maintenance as I multi-tasked as librarian, teacher and computer lab instructor. I am further trained and qualified to mentor for CT Team. Last year at New Beginnings Family Academy I successfully mentored two beginning teachers each of which achieved certification. I have also served as master teacher for several University of Bridgeport student teachers. In my teaching career I have advised several curriculum committees and have developed early childhood curriculum for transitional classes in Bridgeport. My personal experience of 42 years as an educator has afforded me a firsthand awareness of the importance of identifying and addressing the specific needs of each student. This process not only includes academic needs but also emotional and physical challenges. I am also aware of the constant challenges of multi-media advances in education along with the overwhelming barrage of costly curriculum that is available. However, I am a firm believer that consistency, creativity and conscientious instruction in the basic skills is a winning approach to achievement. Specialties: Stratford Democratic Town Committee Endorsed Candidate Fifth District - Town Council 2010 Endorsed Candidate Fifth District - Town Council 2012