Tucson is an awesome city. As the provider of beautiful sunsets, mountain views, and gorgeous scenery, the Old Pueblo has lots to offer. The home of the University of Arizona and their much beloved Wildcats, Tucson has a number of historic, social, and cultural areas. Fine Mexican dining, vibrant Mexican culture, and street festivals abound. Tucson boasts Saguaros galore and an occasional wild javelin. ACE Phoenix also happens to be two hours away.
We pride ourselves on upholding the Tucson tradition of sharing many meals together each week. Together we laugh in our living room, grade papers on our many couches, and watch various sports throughout the year. We can often be found attending events at each of the four schools which helps to etablish a sense of community within the larger context of our Catholic schools.
As an undergrad, I grew in my faith by critically examining it in my PLS courses. I'm looking forward to now growing in my faith actively through service. I see ACE as an opportunity to put the spiritual strides I've made over the past four years into practice.
Exhilarating! I am learning so much, and everything is moving at lightning speed as we approach the start of the school year. I cannot wait to take what I am learning and bring it to my classroom of students in August!
Before this year, I had never understood what it meant to have childlike faith. But after a year of watching 10- and 11-year-olds question, believe, struggle, and grasp with their budding faith, that phrase makes sense. Kids have a way of putting things so simply, yet so profoundly. We could all use a little childlike faith in our lives!
I am looking forward to the excitement of living in a completely foreign environment. I am delighted to experience the climate, wildlife, activities, food, and culture of Tucson and to share these new experiences with my wonderful fellow community members.
I had a student say, "That last quiz made me critically think." I almost fainted I was so happy.
Kaleidoscopic. I have quickly learned that education is a myriad of changing colors, shapes, concepts, and ideas. No two days (or students) are identical, and although each "view" is beautiful, you never know what you are going to get!
Through ACE, I am hoping to grow in my faith by challenging my future students to talk about their faith with others. I hope this will help me to be more open with my faith to others.
I would describe my ACE experience as "joyfulchallenging" because I can't pick just one word. Teaching is a challenge that leads to great growth, and that is why I also look back on the year with joy -- I am so grateful for my students, my community, and the grace of the Holy Spirit that carried me through it all.
ACE teachers serve at the following schools:
