I was born in Syria and immigrated to the United States when I was six years old, not knowing a word of English. My mother dropped me off at school and cried all the way home, wondering how I would function. The first few years of school were difficult for me, but every year I improved slightly. In seventh grade, I was blessed to have the best teacher in America! His name was Donald Caldwell Jones, and Mr. Jones, in a tough but loving way, mentored me and helped me to see my true potential. By the end of 7th grade, I became a straight "A" student, but more importantly I began learning about myself and my education. Ironically, I am currently a 7th grade teacher and hope to do for my students what that man did for me.
I have a BA from Columbia College Chicago in Liberal Education/Film Production. In addition, I have a teaching credential and MA in Teaching from Biola University. I am also in the MA - English Composition program at California State University San Bernardino, from where I hope to receive my second MA in December 2015. Before becoming a full-time teacher, I worked for many years as a personal tutor, which allowed me to work one-on-one with students and parents to ensure that learning was taking place.
In my personal life, I have been married to my wife Benyta for nine years. My wife is a registered nurse and a mommy! Our son Maroeil (pictured below) turned four this September. I love teaching and I truly want to make a difference in the lives of others. I try to live my life by one simple, yet golden, rule: treat others the way that you would want to be treated.
I have a BA from Columbia College Chicago in Liberal Education/Film Production. In addition, I have a teaching credential and MA in Teaching from Biola University. I am also in the MA - English Composition program at California State University San Bernardino, from where I hope to receive my second MA in December 2015. Before becoming a full-time teacher, I worked for many years as a personal tutor, which allowed me to work one-on-one with students and parents to ensure that learning was taking place.
In my personal life, I have been married to my wife Benyta for nine years. My wife is a registered nurse and a mommy! Our son Maroeil (pictured below) turned four this September. I love teaching and I truly want to make a difference in the lives of others. I try to live my life by one simple, yet golden, rule: treat others the way that you would want to be treated.