“I can do it.”  Four simple words that speak

volumes.  To teach a student that he/she

should and can try anything is at the core

of my teaching philosophy.  My personal

understanding of this philosophy was

reinforced during my time in the Peace Corps

working in rural schools in El Salvador. “No puedo.” 

This was a constant declaration that I heard

every day I worked in the schools.  It was there

that I decide to take action.  It was there that

my love of teaching turned into a passion that

has continued to grow as I see my students grow,

take risks and take those steps need to say,

"I know I can."