I hate to box myself into categories, (but sometimes it’s easier to do just that): I have 14 years of teaching experience in Toronto’s Public Schools. Within these schools, I’ve taught grades 3-6, Primary 1-3 MID (Mild Intellectual Disabilities, “Homeschool” or “HSP”, – (a misnomer really – more on that later but it’s really a smaller class for students with learning needs). I was also the M.A.R.T., or Methods and Resource Teacher at my current school. My qualifications run the gamut from ESL to Special Education, I have a specialist in Reading and I have a Master of Education from OISE/ UT. There are other qualifications ranging from Tribes © to CASI but I’ve probably lost you by now anyhow, so I’ll stop while I’m ahead.
What’s more important is what I stand for in education. I feel that public education is a hugely important foundation for any society. Healthy and strong public schools are widely diverse and make meaningful contributions to our world partially because of that diversity. I hold the view that education is not about learning the traditional 3Rs rather it is about problem-solving, collaboration, developing empathy, and becoming critical learners in our global society. I strongly feel that The Arts, is transformative and have an enormous influence on how students perceive themselves, the world and how they fit into that world. I also strongly believe that children, – and adults for that matter, – are the constructors of knowledge. We do not pour knowledge into their little heads. Teachers are essentially facilitators and students have the responsibility to become independent thinkers with the help of those teachers.
Beyond my passion for education, I love crafting skin care products for my newborn, cycling with my 9 year old, nurturing the creative bones in me, and pining for the moment I have time to train in Capoeira again. Also love to cook, make bread, and spend time with my wonderful hubby (not in that order!). Activism, social causes and living in an ecologically-friendly way are high up on my list. Oh, and I love puppies, rainbows and unicorns – just kidding on the puppy thing! 
Daniela
Passing Notes