Teacher of the Month | Introducing DJ R.
At Pacific Preparatory, we are so lucky to work with the most caring and energizing instructors, all who bring lessons to life with hands-on learning, customized to every student’s strengths. This month, we are pleased to celebrate DJ, an amazing elementary teacher who masterfully weaves content information into student’s interests and passions. Learn more about what makes DJ wonderful!
DJ (they/them/theirs) graduated from Texas State University with a BA in Spanish and Communications. They have been working with students since 1998, teaching all grade levels and all subjects, as well as working in online instruction. They are certified to teach early childhood, elementary subjects, bilingual (Spanish), and special education. They have also spearheaded a student newspaper and spent five years volunteering in Mexico, working with the children of Indigenous Relief workers. DJ’s teaching philosophy is centered on and dedicated to the whole student. With Pacific Preparatory, DJ teaches all K-5 subjects, specializing in Spanish instruction. DJ is passionate about incorporating social emotional learning into their classes and is an expert at customizing instruction to meet each student’s individual learning needs. When they aren't teaching, DJ can be found cooking with their daughter, going on local and international adventures, arts and craft projects, and enjoying the outdoors.
What’s your favorite subject to teach and why?
My absolute favorite thing to do is work simultaneously with all subjects. The best scenario is together, with my student, we collaborate to integrate their interests and creativity in that moment with the goals they have previously set for themselves. At the beginning of each unit, students design their own projects and set timelines for their own completion. As we progress through the unit, they self assess their progress and reflect on their learning.
What do you enjoy most about teaching with Pacific Preparatory?
The beauty of teaching with Pac Prep is the 1:1 model that allows students the opportunity to flow with their passions. This allows the teacher to put into practice the model of “following the child” and guiding each student’s unique periods of development. I have students who are very talented in a variety of areas. This model allows them to have someone meeting with them to help guide them in their specialty. The ability to cultivate and nurture each rare and special gift that every student has, is indeed a treasure to this teacher’s heart. Some of my students are full time, some are twice a week, even once a week. Where I have had the most success, is when parents want someone to nurture the social emotional learning of their student and, along with their special gifts and talents, they want to build on their strengths in order to meet their academic goals.
Can you share a Pac Prep student success story?
In my time here at Pac Prep, I have seen many success stories ranging from improving reading skills to multi-leveled project-based learning including:
a virtual “Roller-Coaster Timeline in MineCraft”
Screenplay writing that incorporates non-fiction informational content and poetry
Utilizing a family’s upcoming travel to explore geography, time management, and budgeting
Sculpting a new artifact from each destination of a virtual field trip
What do you enjoy most about teaching with Pac Prep?
From the beginning of the pandemic, I have helped students through many transitions with school and home life. I am in awe of the strength and commitment each of our families have demonstrated throughout each transition their families have been through. It is truly inspiring and a privilege to be welcomed into their homes and to be a part of each child’s academic journey!
DJ, we and your students are so lucky to have you on our team! Congratulations on being our Teacher of the Month!