Meet the DECTFL Board members
Andea LaCombe: I believe we as language teachers have the unique opportunity to capture the minds and hearts of students. Learning a language is like learning math in some ways, requiring abstract thinking. It is like language arts, visual arts, and music in other ways, in that there is more than one way to express meaning. Learning a culture encompasses traditions, art forms, history, music, and literature. There is literally something for everyone. While the greatest goal is linguistic proficiency, in my classroom I also want to inspire, and to open doors for students, to offer them experiences that will enrich their lives as they seek to find their paths in life.
Jennifer Short: My guiding principle of teaching is to evoke in my students an appreciation for other cultures, a desire for lifelong learning, and confidence in themselves to succeed. I have been teaching for the past 20 years, 17 of which have been at John Dickinson High School. I teach all levels: Spanish I, II, III, and IB DP. I am passionate about languages and continually study and work to improve my craft. To that end, I have attended numerous conferences and workshops such as those hosted by RCCSD, NECTFL, and ACTFL. I have served on our district's World Language Curriculum Council for the past eight years, the last six of which have been in the role of Chair. I feel blessed to work in a state that understands the need for World Language instruction and in a district with talented, dedicated professionals who have much to offer.
Yazbehl Waters: I believe the author of this Chinese Proverb must have been an educator as their bold statement sums up my strong belief that successful teaching involves students in the learning process. As an instructor, I diligently work to move past the show and tell stage of learning and focus on the involvement stage. It is simply not enough to tell students about math or science concepts or show them examples of writing techniques. It is critical to involve students in their learning, using practical application of concepts and techniques, in the classroom. The need for hands on involvement in my classroom comes as a result of my professional experiences in the medical and apparel industries.
Jennifer Short: My guiding principle of teaching is to evoke in my students an appreciation for other cultures, a desire for lifelong learning, and confidence in themselves to succeed. I have been teaching for the past 20 years, 17 of which have been at John Dickinson High School. I teach all levels: Spanish I, II, III, and IB DP. I am passionate about languages and continually study and work to improve my craft. To that end, I have attended numerous conferences and workshops such as those hosted by RCCSD, NECTFL, and ACTFL. I have served on our district's World Language Curriculum Council for the past eight years, the last six of which have been in the role of Chair. I feel blessed to work in a state that understands the need for World Language instruction and in a district with talented, dedicated professionals who have much to offer.
Yazbehl Waters: I believe the author of this Chinese Proverb must have been an educator as their bold statement sums up my strong belief that successful teaching involves students in the learning process. As an instructor, I diligently work to move past the show and tell stage of learning and focus on the involvement stage. It is simply not enough to tell students about math or science concepts or show them examples of writing techniques. It is critical to involve students in their learning, using practical application of concepts and techniques, in the classroom. The need for hands on involvement in my classroom comes as a result of my professional experiences in the medical and apparel industries.