Cerna Clubhouse

It was my freshman year at UNM and I took a Spanish class that required me to write a children’s book and then read it to a bilingual first grade class. The children were so excited to have visitors and were fascinated by all the books we made for them. I was equally excited and immediately lit up as I read my chili pepper book to the class. It was amazing to see the relationship the teacher had with his students and seeing how much the teacher and students cared for one another. When getting ready to leave the class I was overwhelmed with how many students got up to hug me. I felt so good about myself and left that first grade class in tears, not because I was sad, but because I finally knew what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. The children, without even realizing it, really touched my heart. I never felt that way about anything and it was after that day that I knew, teaching was my true calling. Since then I have seen and read about different teaching philosophies and have begun to unfold my own. So far, I have been a student teacher for a 3rd grade class and have taught middle school health for 5 years. I have also taught preschool to my toddler while I have been on maternity leave for a year.

When I think about education I think about people working together to create, learn, imagine, remember, and experience new things. Education, in my opinion, is not a one way street, but rather a system in which an educator presents subjects in a way that is most beneficial to his or her students. It is therefore, important not to assume how students will learn, but instead observe their behaviors and use that as evidence for lessons. This learning through discovery is called constructivism and is the idea of building lessons around students. Allowing students to participate in their own learning makes the learning experience memorable. When hearing a teacher lecture on a cow you may remember it. If that lecture is also combined with pictures of cows, a cow figurine being passed around, and partners discussing how cows are important to them, that lecture becomes unforgettable. Modifying, collaborating and justifying lessons with your students is important when you want your students to maintain the information you are teaching them and something I intend on utilizing every day in my classroom.

Named outstanding student in the elementary education department upon graduation. Nominated and voted as the department leader for Electives. Recognized as a role model teacher for restorative practices.

Graduated from the University of New Mexico with a Bachelor's of Science degree in Elementary Education K-8. I also have endorsements in TESOL and Health.

I have been married for 5 years and have 3 beautiful children. I also have 3 dogs and enjoy camping and boating. I am also a Disney fanatic and love all things Disney. When I am not running around with my kids I am either curled up with a good book or watching a crime documentary.