Penelope Espinoza

Background

About Penelope Espinoza

Williams Elementary and Middle School, Williams, AZ - English Language Arts Teacher (7th/8th grade) August 2022 - present I facilitate various lesson plans centered around English Language Arts, adhering to all necessary and prominent AZ Common Core state standards including lessons on reading, composition, comprehension, and vocabulary. I help maintain a safe and calm classroom environment, focusing primarily on respect (respect for one another and respect for school property), as well as using trauma informed practices within the classroom to ensure the safety of all students. I maintain healthy and cordial relationships with all parents of each student, contacting many regularly for positive messages or notes of disciplinary actions. I continually strive to form healthy and mentor-like relationships with all students regardless of their background or academic performance to ensure each student feels validated and recognized in the classroom space. I also work in the after-school program “Flacon Flyers” to teach kids ranging from kindergarten to 8th grade about nature, seasons, and animals. Foresight Learning Center, Flagstaff, AZ - Preschool Teacher December 2021 - May 2022 I managed a classroom of 2-3 year olds, and kept them engaged in class work and art projects. I read books to my students and encouraged them to follow along by asking questions or stating observations. I supervised students to ensure everyone stayed safe and on task with various activities throughout the day. I helped resolve conflicts among students within the classroom, as well as outside disputes, through restorative practices and gentle conversation. Boys and Girls Club - Seasonal Teen Development Professional May 2022 - August 2022 Lead and facilitated two summer programs for teens aged 11-16 (taught teens about lyricism/poetry and planning for their futures [career development]). Maintained a safe and organized class environment using effective class management skills. Mentored many teens throughout the summer, focusing on building student-mentor relationships to help many teens through various life issues/problems. Helped organize field trips and supervised teens on trips outside the Cogdill Boys and Girls Club summer camp site.