My story:
I was born and raised on the border in Nogales, Arizona where I experienced the borderlands before the term became popular. I was a bilingual first grade teacher in Tucson, Arizona before I started my graduate studies. Originally, I started my studies as an anthropology major; but, then I switched to education when I realized that I would need at least eight years of anthropology before I could get a job. Also, I discovered bilingual education and switched majors. At the University of Arizona, I was in the second cohort of students to be trained as bilingual teachers when I graduated in 1978. One of the aspects of the job that I enjoy the most is my role on the diversity committee for the school.
My students at University of Colorado Denver:
Over the years, I have seen many of our graduates assume leadership positions in the schools and districts. They are making a difference through their work and are utilizing their experiences and learning to serve as advocates for students and their families.
Classes I teach at the University of Colorado Denver School of Education & Human Development:
- Issues in Chicano Education - TED 2400/ETST 2400
- Foundations of Bilingual Education - LLC 5160
My research interests:
In the past I have been engaged with a variety of research topics including Amish literacy and the career narrative of Chicana teachers. More recently I have been investigating language policy in the debates over the future of bilingual education and nativism as a forgotten ideology. My current research topics are the politics of immigration and immigration rights.
My hobbies:
In the past, I have worked with photography and weaving. I don't have the opportunity to take many photos now with my cameras, but I still manage to take photos with my eyes. I am interested in the "arts" in general, especially classical Indian music and dance.
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