Office Hours Fall 2022
I am available to meet during my office hours:
Mondays from 8/29 to 12/12 - 3:00-5:00 PM via Zoom (see link in Canvas)
Wednesdays from 8/31 to 12/14 - 5:00-6:00 PM in 1508
I am also available other times by appointment. Please message me in Canvas to arrange a time to meet if needed.
Who Am I professionally?
I began working with young children in 1985 as a toddler teacher. Over the years I have worked with all age groups and lately I teach at Cabrillo in Early Childhood Education. I specialize in Administration, Infant and Toddler Care, Adolescence, Curriculum and Anti-Bias/Diversity Education. One of my favorite jobs was as a Master Teacher for a couple of years in the Cabrillo Lab School, both with toddlers and preschoolers. I enjoyed the dynamic of working with children, instructors, families and students. I first taught a practicum class in 1997 in Colorado at Red Rocks College. Later I directed the Mission College Lab School and collaborated with thePracticum Instructors.
My family
In my personal life I am married with 6 "childre", from 18-27 years old: 2 by birth, 2 adopted and 2 step children. It is lively and energetic in our house, not in the least because of our 6 cats and 3 dogs. (Bruno is my "puppy" in the photo above.) Currently we have two young adult daughters at home. It is a busy chaotic and delightful family full of unconditional love.
My Educational Background
I began my education at UC Santa Cruz, studying Psychology. I later transferred to Cabrillo College for ECE classes. I completed my MA in Human Development at Pacific Oaks College in 2012. I believe in lifelong learning and I am always looking for the next thing to learn more about.
My Other Work
I work as a consultant for various centers and Santa Clara and Santa Cruz Counties providing training for early childhood teachers. I was a keynote speaker at the ECE Conference in Santa Cruz in October 2019. I enjoyed the experience of talking about the importance of pausing in our work to take care of ourselves and truly understand children's needs. The most interesting consulting job I have had was "Lunches with Mary" at a child care center in Mountain View. I went twice a month to meet with the Director and staff. I answered questions or did observations or found resources to support their learning and growth.