Cristina Sierra

KINDERGARTEN PYP INSTRUCTOR

Who I am as a teacher:

• I believe creating a positive learning environment and respectful class culture provides a foundation for students to be willing to work and invest in their own educational experience. Students who can see their value can envision their purpose, which fosters their goals and dreams for the future. 
• I love finding ways to implement creativity into any subject.  When students have an opportunity to use creativity in learning, it brings both smiles and accomplishment, as well as perseverance through learning challenges.  
• I enjoy the inquisitive nature of science and, as the frameworks permit, finding ways to bring science to life for my students regularly.  
• I have a 16-year background in early childhood programs locally. For over 11 years, I taught, directed, and developed Shoreline Preschool, Monterey Campus. 
• I have experience working with military and transitional families, as well as local families in the community, from a variety of social and cultural backgrounds. I have worked with students who recently relocated from Jordan, Korea, and Vietnam before entering preschool for the first time. I understand the importance of developing positive relationships with students and their families from a variety of linguistic and cultural backgrounds.  
• Relationships are key. Students respond positively when they know I am committed to investing in them. They see that I care but understand that I hold high expectations because I believe in them and what they are capable of.
• I enjoy encouraging students to work through learning and social challenges.  I have found the formula for helping most students process difficulties is a balance of strong boundaries, love, and patience