Introduction J. Lopez

 

I am deeply passionate about teaching and find great joy in fostering a love of learning in my students. I firmly believe in the power of open communication and collaboration—not only within the classroom but also among staff, students, parents, and the wider community. My approach to teaching is rooted in patience and empathy, recognizing the diverse needs and backgrounds of each individual student. I strive to create an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and supported, regardless of their abilities, race, disability, gender, or belief systems.

I will be doing my practicum in a middle school serving grades 6-8, with students who have moderate to mild needs, as well as those in programs for severe/significant needs, CSD, and CLDE. The student population is approximately 75% minority, with 68% economically disadvantaged. The school is named after the wildlife spotted in the area and is a Title I school focused on trauma-informed curriculum. Our curriculum emphasizes classroom culture and community, and we use tools such as Canvas and Amplify.

I have some experience with lesson planning from my time as a long-term substitute in another district. My lesson plans typically begin with a large group session, followed by small group work, incorporating visual aids and academic arts to allow students to move and engage more actively. Most of my lessons integrate the arts and leverage students' individual abilities to maximize their learning.