Natasha Vallejo '10

Q:   Can you describe the moment when you realized you wanted to become a teacher?

A:   I realized I wanted to become a teacher when I was in 3rd grade. My teacher did a lesson on hieroglyphics that stuck with me. We had painted and drawn on some pottery the day before and she came in, acted upset, and just started throwing the bags on the floor. We were not sure what was going on and she then introduced hieroglyphics to us and she told us we had to use our drawings to help us put our vases back together. I knew then that I wanted the opportunity to teach and implement memorable lessons and have that same impact on young minds.

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Q:   How did the Teacher Education program at UIW prepare you for your role as a teacher?

A:    The Teacher Education prepared me for my role as a teacher by not only offering many classes where I learned about the theories, philosophy, and development of children but by also providing me with real-world experiences. I was paired with amazing mentor teachers that I learned from while gaining experience in real classrooms around San Antonio. This program also set the foundation for connections I made that helped me get to where I am today. My very first teaching position within a school district, I was able to obtain because of connections made during my student teaching experience and I was fortunate enough to be able to go back to that same campus.

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Q:   What is your favorite memory from the Teacher Education program at the University of the Incarnate                 Word?

A:    It's hard to pinpoint one memory because I truly enjoyed my time at UIW. I would say my favorite thing about the education program was being with the same small group of people and having the same professors. It really allowed for connections and friendships to be formed which was an advantage to us when it came time for discussions. The small group helped make us feel safe and comfortable with each other.

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Q:   How long have you been working in education?

A:   Although I recently took a year off to stay home with my 2 babies, this will be my 15th year. When I began my teaching journey, districts were on a freeze so I began as a permanent substitute less than a month after graduation. I then went on to charter school for 2 years before I went to work with Judson ISD and Harlandale ISD.

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Q:   Please tell us about your current position in education.

A:    I am currently an RTI, Response to Intervention Teacher in Judson ISD. I work with students K-5 who struggle academically and behaviorally. In my work, I strive to pinpoint and close the achievement gaps so that students can be successful in their grade level. I also help teachers manage student behaviors that may interfere with instruction and ensure that all students have an opportunity to be successful.

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Q:   What do you enjoy the most about your current job?

A:   I enjoy being able to help students with gaps in their learning so that they can be successful with grade-level-appropriate content. Being in small groups also gives me the time and flexibility to teach students in a more direct way and I can then monitor their growth of isolated concepts rather than standards with a lot of prerequisite skills needed. I am also able to help students who may need further assistance through SPED or 504 receive those services.

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Q:   What advice would you give to future educators or anyone considering a career in teaching?

A:    I would tell them to always remember all students are someone's child. If a student is giving someone a hard time, chances are, it's because they are having a hard time. When you choose to go into a career like teaching it is vital to take care of the whole child whether it be social, emotional, or educational. Building strong relationships is essential because children are more likely to learn and engage when they feel loved and valued by their teacher.​

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Q:   What are your career goals for the next five years?

A:    I plan on getting my Special Education Certification in the next couple of years and eventually going back to school to obtain a graduate degree in school psychology.