Where do you teach?

My school's name is, University of Wyoming Lab School. With the kids I go by Ms. Falcon. I officially started teaching in California, in 1998. 

How long have you been a teacher?

I have been teaching about 25 years all together. And I still love what I do!

How has COVID-19 affected your day-to-day teaching life?

Like with everything, Covid has changed interaction with education in many ways. Nevertheless, there is nothing to compare what it is like being in the classroom with my students. I would never change it for any other kind of teaching. The kids need their teachers, and the teachers need their kids, in to convey teaching properly.

How do you keep the kids engaged?

One thing I have never forgotten from credentialing school is that an attention getter, right before the class starts, is the most important part of your lesson, since this will set the tone of the class that day. Since I had only taught high school for the most of my teaching life in California, I was shocked to learn that in Wyoming I needed to teach K-2!! Therefore, I needed a miracle to be able to even try to appeal as a teacher to an unexpected younger student population. Quite honestly, I was terrified! So, I just decided to use puppets, cat ears and a tail, a laser sword, and funny voices, in order find that attention getter, and it hasn't failed me yet.

Who nominated you?

My daughter in law, Laura, who I love very much, and with whom I have a very good relationship nominated me. She is a registered nurse, and just like me, she is high on the list when it comes to education. I had no idea she had done this.

What inspires you to keep teaching?

Inspiration comes daily with the students, in order to serve them better. The better you know them, the better you can address their educational needs. Moreover, my three children are all now adult professionals, and teaching the little ones helps me deal with the empty nest syndrome quite well.

What does this nomination mean to you?

I feel very lucky to have been nominated by Bobo's. I appreciate it and I am grateful! 

 

Support Ms. Falcon and teachers nationwide by purchasing our 'Hero' Chocolate Chip Oat Bar. You can also support her Classrooom through AdoptAClassroom.Org at this link!