At Hatzlaja Early Childhood Academy, we are committed to providing a nurturing and enriching environment for young children. As the founder and director of our Academy, my mission is not only to cultivate a love of learning in our students but also to implement a new and improved educational model rooted in both academic excellence and strong moral values. With a rich educational background and over a decade of professional experience in teaching and leadership, I’m excited to share how my qualifications have shaped my approach to early childhood education.
Education That Paves the Way
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Spanish and English Education from Northwest Missouri State University, where I graduated summa cum laude. During my time at Northwest, I had the unique opportunity to study abroad for one year in the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Chile, immersing myself in a new culture and language. This experience not only strengthened my passion for education but also deepened my appreciation for bilingual learning.
In addition to my undergraduate studies, I earned an ESL Endorsement from Concordia University, which further expanded my teaching skills. Recognizing the importance of continuously improving my professional knowledge, I pursued a Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Doane University. This advanced education has been instrumental in refining my teaching strategies and understanding how to create effective curricula that cater to the diverse needs of young learners.
Extensive Professional Experience
Over the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in various capacities. From classroom teaching to taking on the role of Department Head for two years, I’ve gained invaluable leadership and organizational experience. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with students of all ages and backgrounds, adapting my teaching methods to meet their individual learning needs. This experience has instilled in me a deep understanding of how children learn best and how to foster an environment where they can thrive.
In addition to my ESL experience, I have worked as a substitute teacher in several school districts, including Omaha, Millard, Gretna, and Fremont Public Schools. This diverse exposure has allowed me to engage with different educational systems and teaching styles, further broadening my understanding of effective educational practices.
I also have a strong foundation in Montessori education, having taught at the Montessori Educational Centers of Omaha. The Montessori approach has inspired me with its child-centered philosophy, and I have integrated its principles into the development of Hatzlaja Early Childhood Academy’s curriculum.
Hatzlaja Early Childhood Academy: A New Educational Model
At Hatzlaja, we are inspired by Montessori’s emphasis on hands-on learning and individualized instruction, but we also believe in offering a distinctive educational experience. Our faith-based approach and bilingual immersion program set us apart. We aim to foster not only academic growth but also spiritual development and cultural awareness in our students. I am proud to hold a Childcare Director’s certificate from DHHS Nebraska Child Care Licensing, ensuring that our academy adheres to the highest standards of childcare and early childhood education.
With my educational background and professional experience, I am committed to creating an environment where children are nurtured, empowered, and prepared for future success. By combining my passion for bilingual education, Montessori-inspired practices, and a faith-based approach, I believe we can truly make a difference in the lives of the children at Hatzlaja Early Childhood Academy.
