I am currently an ESOL coach for my district, working with both ESOL and mainstream teachers to help them differentiate and improve the quality of their instruction for English language learners. I currently work in Maryland, but spent several years teaching in North Carolina, and I completed my student teaching in Tennessee as well. During my career, I have worked with students in grades K-8, though most of my attention has been focused on the upper grades, 4-8. I have been invited to Busan, S. Korea, twice to conduct 2 week teacher training seminars on Content Based English Instruction for English language learners, and I am SIOP trained. In addition, I also lead numerous Continuing Professional Development courses, workshops, and focus groups for teachers in my district. In addition to my MS, I also have a BA degree in Spanish and Mass Communications.
I am very passionate about my job and my students. I spend hours at home planning lessons and creating materials to use in my classroom. Many of my materials were originally designed for use in the ESL classroom, however, they can easily be used or adapted for use in the mainstream classroom by students of every ability level.
My teaching style is very laid back. My students know that as long as they follow directions, we will have a great time in class!
I believe in catering to my students' multiple intelligences and providing an area where they are excited to come and learn.
In my ESOL class, I believe very highly in the value of reading and literacy, and work hard to impress it upon my students as well. As a result, we do many novel studies incorporating cross-curricular materials and concepts.
Summa Cum Laude, Master of Science
Teacher of the Month
M.S. in Foreign Language and ESL Education from University of Tennessee, 2008
B.A. in Journalism and Spanish from Carson-Newman College, 2006
My husband and I are natives of Knoxville, TN. We have no children, but do enjoy spending time with our niece and nephew when we can. We also enjoy spending time in the modern middle ages at SCA events. Catch up with me on my blog, The ESOL Odyssey. Find Tools for Teachers by Laurah Jurca on FaceBook.
Third, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, Eighth, Ninth, Homeschooler
English Language Arts, Reading, Math, Literature, Statistics, Holidays/Seasonal, Back to School