For me, finding Diegueño was like discovering the Swiss Family Robinson treehouse, for it is a place filled with love (always first and foremost), invention, adventure, and appreciation for the contributions that others make. The moment I met Michael and Leah, I knew that it was where I was meant to be, for I felt that it would be their nurturing and the deep love they have for their magical school that would inspire my own development as a teacher. Over the last ten years, I have been able to grow (much like the students!) into the person I am now: someone who values education, who is curious about the world of people and knowledge, and who wants to effect positive change by inspiring and working with others. I am able to thrive as a member of the Diegueno family because Michael and Leah encourage me to express my creativity and my passion for the English language and learning in general. By feeling and sharing a genuine enthusiasm for every play, novel, poem, and (believe it or not) grammar concept that I teach, I am able to reach the students at a deeper level. We share a journey of discovery together, and we all learn from the experience. Indeed, the intimacy that is created in each classroom, an intimacy that is based on mutual respect and true affection is powerful, and it is this feeling that makes me smile every day as the eucalyptus trees give way to my second home, my Diegueño treehouse.
Liz Calderon |
