Greetings from 2nd grade! We are a team of 5 teachers with over 80 years of shared experience in the field of education. Nos encanta trabajar en Forester!
Monica Garza (Team Leader and Campus Science Facilitator) As an educator with 27 years of experience, I've had the privilege of teaching across a range of grade levels, from 2nd to 5th grade. Each year, I've been fueled by the opportunity to ignite young minds and foster a love for learning within my students. My passion lies in creating engaging and dynamic learning environments. I believe in nurturing the whole child and cultivating a classroom community built on kindness, respect, and collaboration. I am committed to continuous growth and learning, both for myself and my students, and I am dedicated to making a positive and lasting impact in the lives of those I teach.
Coral Escallada (Dual Language Teacher) I am an esteemed educator with over 17 years of experience in the field of teaching. My journey in education began with a passion for inspiring young minds and has since evolved into a distinguished career marked by dedication, innovation, and a commitment to student success. I integrate technology, hands-on activities, and real-world connections to engage students and enhance their learning experiences. I taught 3rd grade for 2 years then, transitioned to 2nd grade where I have continued my teaching career as an educator. I am excited to continue making a positive impact in the lives of my students and fellow educators.
Erika Brendler (Monolingual Teacher) I have been in education my entire career, with the past 14 years dedicated to teaching 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade classes. I began my career in the field of School Psychology, and have also had the opportunity to work with many special populations, including students with autism, dyslexia, and giftedness. I am passionate about helping students recognize and celebrate their differences by connecting to learning in meaningful ways. Nothing makes me happier than seeing a student figure out how rewarding it is to find success in his/her own way.
Alicia Ochoa (Dual Language Teacher) With 16 years of dedicated teaching experience, I have had the privilege of nurturing young minds at Forester Elementary School. My journey began with 5 years in pre-kindergarten where I laid the foundation for early childhood development.
Transitioning to 1st grade, I spent 7 years guiding students through crucial stages of literacy and numeracy development, fostering a love for learning. For the past 4 years, I have continued to make a meaningful impact in 2nd grade classrooms, building upon foundational skills and preparing students for future academic success. Throughout my tenure, I have demonstrated a commitment to creating including and engaging learning environments, empowering students to reach their full potential.
Rocio Galvan (Bilingual Teacher) I have taught Pre-K, Kinder, and 5th grade prior to becoming a 2nd grade teacher. I am passionate about having every individual student learn, grow, and thrive. I strongly feel that teaching is rooted in the joy of sparking curiosity, nurturing creativity, and fostering a love for lifelong learning. I love witnessing the moment when a concept clicks for a student.
