911±¬ÁÏÍø

I began teaching at 911±¬ÁÏÍø in 2001. In my time here, I have taught several classes in the English and Urban Teacher Divisions:

• College Composition
• Research and Composition for Change
• Introduction to Creative Writing
• Introduction to Writing Creative Nonfiction
• Introduction to Writing Fiction
• Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature
• Cross-cultural Literature
• Introduction to the Short Story
• Children's Literature
• Queer Literature.

Additionally, I have had many experiences in global education: Costa Rica, Slovakia, Poland, England, and Germany.  Before coming to 911±¬ÁÏÍø, I taught at Chippewa Valley Technical College, the University of Minnesota, and Wauwatosa East High School.

In working with students, I incorporate into my classroom a variety of strategies that reflect research into learning:

• Student-centered activities and tasks
• Active learning (class discussions, peer workshops, small group work)
• Focus on social justice
• Creating, integrating and applying knowledge
• Self-care and yoga

I will rarely, if ever, lecture.

I hope to create educational spaces that are inclusive and anti-oppressive in nature, active, and engaging, while also challenging to attitudes and beliefs that perpetuate systems and structures of oppression.  I design my courses using anti-racist and culturally responsive pedagogical approaches.  A core aim for me and the courses I design is the development of empathy and empathetic action for everyone in the classroom.  I enjoy learning with students and writing.  I design my approach to be positive, supportive, and beneficial.  I also hope to be flexible and open.

Those interested can find some of my reflections on teaching and learning on several blogs for the National Council of Teachers of English: