Inspired Teacher Certification Program
Staff and Fellows
Staff
- Miriam Gonzales
Miriam Gonzales has worked in the field of Education as a researcher, policy analyst, program evaluator and teacher. She received her PhD in Education and MA in Sociology from Stanford University in 1995 where she researched the organizational support needed to teach effectively in culturally and academically diverse classrooms. After graduate school, Miriam’s work as a researcher at an education policy firm in Washington, DC took her into classrooms across the country to observe and evaluate national and federal programs. She turned to classroom teaching several years later, enjoying putting theory into practice with fifth grade public school students. More recently, Miriam has integrated her interest in the arts and education by teaching playwriting to elementary and high school students. She is currently teaching playwriting to fifth graders in DC. This is Miriam's first year with Center for Inspired Teaching, where she is working as an Instruction and Leadership Coach. - Cosby Hunt
Cosby Hunt is a native Washingtonian who earned his
bachelor’s degree in Non-Western History at the University of Pennsylvania and
began his teaching career in rural Georgia as part of the Teach for America
program (’93 Corps). He stayed in Georgia to get his master's degree in
Secondary Social Science Education at the University of Georgia. He returned
to DC in 1997 and spent thirteen years teaching social studies at Bell
Multicultural High school –now the Columbia Heights Educational Campus-where
he led the social studies department as well as the tennis and debate teams.
Cosby earned his National Board Certification in 2006 and is one of only a
handful of National Board Certified social studies teachers in the city. - Trish Jackman
Trish Jackman has spent the past nine years in the field of education. She has been a middle school and elementary classroom teacher, as well as a Title I Reading teacher. Most recently she has taught education courses at Johns Hopkins University, and has written text and assessment pieces for an education company. She holds BA in English from John Carroll University and a MEd in Reading Education from the University of Virginia. This year she will be working with the staff at Orr Elementary. - Monisha Karnani
Monisha recently earned her Masters in Educational Administration and Policy at Howard University after having taught high school math in the Baltimore City Public Schools for 3 years. Monisha is Maryland State Certified to teach Secondary Mathematics, and she holds a Bachelors Degree in Engineering from the University of Michigan. After a short career in the Juvenile Justice System, Monisha joined the New Teacher Project and made the switch to urban education. Her passion in the classroom is collaborative learning, while her research interests include gender differences in education and single-sex learning environments. At Inspired Teaching Monisha works with teachers and leaders at Inspired Schools.
Why Monisha works at Inspired Teaching:
"Witnessing teachers experience magical 'aha' moments in their work leads me to feel inspired every day and keeps me passionate about my work. Working for an organization that truly values the work of teachers and the profession itself, makes my job so much more enjoyable. I strongly believe in the philosophy of Inspired Teaching, and more importantly I am passionate about the approach we use to influence change in the educational system. I am passionate about the importance of teachers in society, and through my work at Inspired Teaching I feel that I have the opportunity to be an advocate, a resource, and a champion for teachers."
- Kate Keplinger
Kate is a DC-certified teacher in secondary social studies, and holds an Masters in Teaching degree from American University. At Center for Inspired Teaching, Kate has worked with hundreds of DC teachers and students, created training programs for local community organizations, and presented at national education conferences. She created and directed Inspired Teaching's summer school program, providing support and instruction to teachers and students. Before joining Center for Inspired Teaching, Kate gained teaching experience at Deal Junior High School in Washington, DC and at Montgomery Blair High School in Montgomery County, MD. Prior to working at Inspired Teaching, she spent several years working as a legislative assistant for Congresswoman Louise M. Slaughter.
Why Kate works at Inspired Teaching:
"My work at Inspired Teaching combines my passion for social justice and social change, belief in the power of people to make that change, interest in public policy, and roots and faith in public education. If we change how young people are educated, we can change the world." - Pax (Linda Linson)
Pax has over 30 years of experience in
the fields of early childhood education, conflict resolution, special
education, and advocacy in public schools. She specializes in helping
adults build relationships with children that nurture individuality and
uniqueness, and in creating developmentally appropriate education
environments. As Mentor-Teacher for John Tyler Elementary, Pax provides support and
feedback to every teacher in this partner school. - Aleta Margolis
Aleta is a former professor of education at American University, specializing in authentic assessment, science and math education, and curriculum reform. As a public school teacher, Aleta taught in both elementary and middle schools and designed and ran alternative educational programs for court-referred high school students. In 2001, Aleta was awarded a Fellowship from Ashoka: Innovators for the Public, in recognition of Inspired Teaching's work training teachers to transform the way schoolchildren are taught. Ashoka recognizes and supports social entrepreneurs worldwide who have created innovative programs with the potential to make large scale change in society. Aleta received her undergraduate degree at Brown University and her MS in Education and Social Policy at Northwestern University. - Dr. Julie Sweetland
Julie has several years of experience as a classroom teacher in a variety of urban contexts and a background in curriculum design. She is a graduate of Georgetown University and holds an MS and PhD in Linguistics from Stanford University. Julie's doctoral research, funded by the National Science Foundation, evaluated the implementation of a writing curriculum that used children's literature to introduce themes of language variation in African American elementary classrooms. As the Director of Research at Center for Inspired Teaching, Julie finds ways to use classroom-based research to help students, teachers, and schools reach their full potential. Her current research projects focus on the nature of teaching and learning in District of Columbia public schools and the process of teacher change. Julie's work has appeared in publications such as Journal of Sociolinguistics, Journal of English Linguistics, and Educational Researcher. - Dr. Edie Tatel
Edie has been teaching and working in education for almost 40 years, including in the Chicago Public Schools, at the University of Maryland, for the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, at Teach For America, and at American University. She received her PhD from the University of Maryland, College Park in Education Policy, Planning, and Administration, with her dissertation focusing on supervising and mentoring student teachers. She has been published and presented papers on peer coaching and mentoring, as well as effective methods for teaching writing. - Dr. Sabrina L. Wesley-Nero
Sabrina is a graduate of Georgetown University and has a MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Multilingual and Multicultural Education and a PhD. in Education from George Mason University. As a public school teacher, Sabrina taught in elementary general education, Spanish bilingual, and Spanish immersion classrooms. She has also worked as a field experience supervisor and an adjunct faculty member for George Mason University. Sabrina has presented at national conferences on issues related to second language learners and teacher preparation, worked as an educational consultant for Washington, DC, area schools, and designed teacher education curriculum. Her research focuses on the preparation of effective teachers for cultural and linguistically diverse students. At Center for Inspired Teaching, Sabrina helps to develop and implement research and evaluation programs that support teacher growth and student achievement.
Why Sabrina works at Inspired Teaching:
"It is a privilege to work on behalf of children and in collaboration with teachers locally here in DC. Often I find that the children, teachers, and I share similarities in our backgrounds. I can often point to parallels in our personal life histories. Propelled by those similarities, I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the creation and support of high quality, effective teaching so that children of DC can reap the benefits that are inherent in an excellent education." - Deborah Dantzler Williams
Deborah Dantzler Williams has more than 25 years of progressive experience in the field of education. She has taught at the primary, elementary, intermediate, high school, undergraduate and graduate school levels, and was appointed director of a primary school and director of an intermediate school. Deborah obtained her undergraduate degree from the Honors Program of Howard University and graduate degrees from Howard University and Columbia University Teachers College. A lifelong learner, Deborah has participated in numerous professional development programs and classes including the Northeast Foundation for Children's Responsive Classroom, Lucy Caulkins Writers Workshop, and the Educational Research Bureau's Interpretation and Use of Standardized Testing Results for the Improvement of Teaching and Learning. Deborah and her husband, both Washingtonians, are the proud parents of two daughters. Deborah works with principals and teachers in DCPS through Inspired Teaching's School Partnership Program.
Why Deborah works at Inspired Teaching:
- The possibility that I can be a part of the tremendous work being done to improve teaching and learning for the children of the District of Columbia
- My belief that education opens paths, opens minds, enhances the experience of life and is a source of joy
- My wish to link my diminutive efforts with the work of others so that we might touch the future and pave the way for better tomorrows
- In short, this work is a source of optimism and delight - what a joy it is for me!
Fellows
- Anne Atwell-McLeod, 2009 Fellow
Anne Atwell-McLeod is in the Secondary English Language Arts track of the Inspired Teacher Certification Program. Anne graduated from Amherst College, where she finished Magna Cum Laude with a B.A. in American Studies and English. After graduation, she served as a volunteer coordinator for the Obama campaign. Anne comes from a family of educators and is excited to be realizing her dream of becoming a teacher herself.
“Young people are great because they possess so much energy, enthusiasm, and humor. Tapping into that can be challenging but also exciting and, ultimately, rewarding.”
Currently teaching 7th grade at Friends Community School.
- Travis Barnwell, 2009 Fellow
Travis Barnwell is a member of the 2009 cohort of Inspired Teaching Fellows pursuing the Secondary English Language Arts track. He holds a B.A. in History and recently returned from two years spent teaching English, Math, and HIV/AIDS Education in southern Africa. A believer that youth are the future, Travis is passionate about serving our country through the development of its youth.
“If ever anyone carried their legacy beyond their own grave, it was done through youth that they influenced. Youth are eternal benefactors compelled by this inheritance to one day make their own contributions.”
Currently teaching 8th grade at Hart Middle School.
- Natalie Berger, 2010 Resident
Natalie Berger is seeking certification in the Early Childhood Track of Inspired Teaching’s certification program. Natalie graduated Magna cum laude from the University of Maryland with a degree in psychology and Germanic studies. She has worked extensively with young children as an assistant teacher at the Takoma Children’s School and a substitute teacher at the Beauvoir School.
Currently a Pre-K – Kindergarten Teaching Resident at Capital City Public Charter School - Celeste Berteau, 2009 Fellow
Celeste Berteau is a member 2009 cohort of Inspired Teaching Fellows in the Elementary Education track. Celeste has experience teaching, tutoring, and counseling in a variety of capacities. After graduating Magna Cum Laude from Kenyon College, Celeste’s passion for education led her to the classroom where she worked as a classroom assistant and tutor. This classroom exposure left her even more eager to have a classroom of her own.
“I love young people because they understand a lot of things that most adults take for granted, like the importance of having a good imagination and how essential it is to laugh loud and often.”
Currently teaching 6th grade at MacFarland Middle School.
- Erika Bowman, 2009 Fellow
Erika Bowman is an Inspired Teaching Fellow in Early Childhood Education. Since earning a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration, Erika worked for several nonprofit organizations. As a marketing consultant for Ashoka, Erika worked to create a web-based Resource Center for employees, and traveled internationally to photograph various projects. Erika also volunteered a significant amount of time working with children as a mentor and a tutor, which influenced her transition into teach full time.
“The Inspired Teaching program will help me to have the courage, inspiration, and support network to grow into the teacher I hope to be.”
Currently teaching at Thomson Elementary School.
- Carmon Brown, 2010 Fellow
Carmon Brown is seeking Elementary Education certification from the Inspired Teaching Certification Program. Carmon received a Master’s degree in education from Lesley University in 2010. After working as a grade teaching assistant at a local charter school this past year, Carmon felt the call to teach. She looks forward to positively impact students’ lives as an Inspired Teaching Fellow.
“Young people are great because they desire to understand the world around them and are not afraid to think critically, engage in experimentation, and challenge what adults accept as being conventional.”
Currently teaching 1st grade at Arts and Technology Public Charter School - Catherine Currie, 2009 Fellow
Catherine Currie pursued her certification in Elementary Education through the Inspired Teacher Certification Program. Catherine has graduated Magna Cum Laude from Georgetown University, with a degree in Theology. She has a passion for education and previously worked for three years as an elementary school tutor. Catherine also had experience with education policy while interning with the Coalition for Community Schools.
“On my first day I will be eager: anxious to see my students grow to love learning, and excited to see them not simply as names on a page but as individuals with unique learning needs.”
- Caroline Doctor, 2010 Fellow
Caroline Doctor is an Inspired Teaching Fellow on the Elementary Education track. Caroline earned a degree in Economics and Geosciences from Williams College. She has a long record of experience with young people, serving as an athletic coordinator for elementary school students and soccer trainer for middle school girls. Caroline is excited become a teacher to empower children through education.
“I hope that my students teach me that you can never underestimate the power and creativity present in the young mind.”
Currently teaching 1st grade at H.D. Cooke Elementary School
- Marian Enriquez, 2010 Fellow
Marian Enriquez is a 2010 Inspired Teaching Fellow in the Early Childhood Education track. Marian earned a Bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University and a Master’s degree from George Washington University. She has an extensive background in theatre arts and volunteers to share her knowledge with young people. Marian is excited to be a Fellow because she can teach children creativity every day.
“We can all possess passion, determination, ambition, and creativity, but there is nothing more beautiful then to see young people have these characteristics.”
Currently teaching Pre-K at Bancroft Elementary School - Jasmin Evans, 2010 Resident
Jasmin Evans is a 2010 Inspired Teaching Resident seeking certification in the Elementary Education program. Jasmin is a graduate of Kent State University and holds a degree in Pan-African studies. She is also a licensed massage therapist. As a former events operations supervisor, Jasmin is confident in her ability to meet deadlines and manage projects, skills that will serve her well in the classroom.
Currently a 3rd-4th grade Teaching Resident at Capital City Public Charter School - Joshua Faden, 2010 Fellow
Joshua Faden is an Elementary Education Fellow with Center for Inspired Teaching. Joshua received his Bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Latin American studies from American University. He has worked with special needs children and served as a math and language tutor to students of various ages and abilities throughout high school and college. Joshua looks forward to working with his students and mentor as an Inspired Teacher.
“The honesty and joy for life that young people exude is truly wonderful. I find their sense of humor to be refreshing and fun.”
Currently teaching 3rd grade at Hyde-Addison Elementary School
- John Fantuzzo, 2009 Fellow
John Fantuzzo is a member of the 2009 Inspired Teaching Fellows in the Secondary English Language Arts track. John is a graduate of American University where he earned his Master’s Degree in Philosophy and Social Policy. Boasting a strong commitment to social justice and a deep understanding of educational philosophy, John is most excited about mastering the art of teaching.
“Young people have impressive imaginations; without blinking, they can foresee what is possible in the world around them.”
Currently teaching at Anacostia High School.
- Krystal Grant-Crutchfield, 2010 Fellow
Krystal Grant-Crutchfield is an Early Childhood Education Fellow with Center for Inspired Teaching. Krystal received a degree in political science from Howard University and a degree in theological studies from Emory University. She has worked with numerous organizations that serve young people, such as Children’s Defense Fund. Krystal has also been a substitute teacher and a member of the Heads Up Educational Program.
“Young people are great because of their energy, creativity, and the many unique gifts they bring to our society.”
Currently teaching Pre-K at Arts and Technology Public Charter School
- Andrés Harris, 2010 Fellow
Andrés Harris joins the Inspired Teaching Fellows on the Elementary Education track. Andrés earned a degree in psychology from University of Florida in 2007. In the past year, he completed an AmeriCorps year of service with the Heroes Team of CityYear, where he mentored and tutored DCPS students and developed curriculum on social justice topics. This has Andrés prepared and excited for the challenges of teaching.
“I hope my students will keep teaching me what it means to be human. I have always aimed to understand others and enrich their lives, and in this respect children are fantastic educators.”
Currently teaching 2nd and 3rd grade Spanish Immersion at Tyler Elementary School
- Kela Harris, 2010 Fellow
Kela Harris is seeking certification as an Elementary Education Fellow in the 2010 cohort of the Inspired Teacher Certification Program. Kela is an almuna of Salem College in North Carolina. She provided care for and tutored elementary school children in addition to serving as a 3rd grade teaching assistant in DCPS. Kela looks forward to entering the classroom and looking through children’s lenses of discovery and wonderment.
“Young people are very honest and do not hide behind the expectations of society. They are not afraid to live passionately and make mistakes.”
Currently teaching 2nd grade at Davis Elementary School
- René Hayden, 2010 Fellow
René Hayden is a 2010 Inspired Teaching Fellow seeking certification in Secondary English Language Arts. Rene received his PhD in History with a concentration in United States History before 1877, Southern History, and Historical and Sociological Theory. After many years teaching at the college level, Rene looks forward to a more productive, meaningful experience working with adolescent learners.
“I don't think there is much of a limit on the amount of things I can learn from my students. I expect I will be taught a lot about patience, perseverance, and what moves the soul.”
Currently teaching 12th grade at IDEA Public Charter School
- Kevin Johnson, 2009 Fellow
Kevin Johnson is an Elementary Education Inspired Teaching Fellow. Since completing his undergraduate studies at Morehouse College, Kevin pursued his love of teaching and of music, earning a Masters in Music while simultaneously working with high school students in the Chicago Public Schools. Kevin is eager to integrate the arts into his classroom as he believes it is vital to the complete education of a child.
“Young people always seem to ask the questions that people avoid. Their curiousity drives their daily function and it keeps me on my toes."
Currently teaching 7th grade at Community Academy Public Charter School.
- Erica Marcus, 2010 Fellow
Erica Marcus is a 2010 Secondary English Language Arts Inspired Teaching Fellow. Erica’s studies focused on sociology and education at Haverford College. She worked with high school and college students in the classroom and transitioned to working with middle and high school students in wilderness environments. Erica looks forward to teaching because she can work with students in such a formative stage of development.
“I will be humbled and honored by the awesome task of ensuring the growth of each individual entrusted to my care.” - Hillary Marder, 2010 Resident
Hillary Marder is in the elementary track of the 2010 Inspired Teaching certification program. A recent graduate of Mount Holyoke College, Hillary has a degree in architectural studies and a minor in politics. During college, she volunteered as a tutor for expectant and teenage mothers seeking their GED and organized volunteers for the Student Global AIDS Campaign. Hillary lived in Greece for a semester and is fluent in Italian.
Currently a 5th-6th grade Teaching Resident at Capital City Public Charter School - Nicole McElroy, 2010 Resident
Nicole McElroy is a 2010 Inspired Teaching Resident seeking certification as an Elementary Education Teacher. She has a B.A. in Ethnic Studies from the University of California, San Diego. Nicole spent the last years as a 10th grade Humanities Teaching Fellow at Capital City Public Charter School. She also interned for the American Federation of Teachers researching and developing a report on obstacles and best practices for addressing the issue of faculty diversity.
"Young people have an innate curiosity and desire to learn. The are enthusiastic and driven in what they do and their positive spirit makes them a pleasure to work with."
- Luke Merkel, 2009 Fellow
Luke Merkel is part of the Elementary Education track as a 2009 Fellow with Inspired Teaching. Luke graduated from Colgate University with a Bachelor of Arts degrees in Educational Studies and Philosophy. Since graduating, he worked in DC as an account executive providing client support for various organizations including the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy.
“Nothing gives me energy like walking into an elementary school classroom, and nothing would make me happier than my students feeding off of this energy and becoming passionate about learning”
Currently teaching Kindergarten at Septima Clarke Public Charter School.
- Robyn Nolan, 2010 Fellow
Robyn Nolan is in the Secondary English Language Arts certification track of the Inspired Teacher Certification Program. Robyn was an undergraduate student at University of Florida and a graduate student at Nova Southeastern University. In the past, she worked with young people at Camp Shalom in Ocala, Florida where she trained 20 to 30 young people as counselors and coordinated camp-wide events.
“I want to tap into students’ innate enthusiasm and direct that toward the educational process.”
Currently teaching 9th grade at Cesar Chavez Public Charter School Capitol Hill Campus
- Robert Otterstatter, 2009 Fellow
Robert Otterstatter is an Inspired Teaching Fellow in the Secondary English Language Arts track. Robert is a career-changer who will be entered the classroom in fall 2009 with over ten years of experience as a police officer. He also served as an adjunct professor of Criminal Justice in Colorado. Robert comes to teaching after finding the law enforcement field to be insufficient in addressing community issues.
“The greatest thing about young people is that the world lays unexplored before them… I believe that we, as teachers, can provide guidance to assist each student in honing their potential & ultimately finding the path that is right for them.”
Currently teaching 8th grade at Deal Middle School.
- Uzma Panjwani, 2010 Fellow
Uzma Panjwani is pursuing her certification in Elementary Education through the Inspired Teacher Certification Program. Uzma received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her professional and academic background is in labor and education policy. Uzma also worked with middle school students to mentor and educate them about diversity.
“Young people are instinctually inquisitive and open to trying new things, which makes each day learning and working with them dynamic, challenging, and in short, fun.”
Currently teaching 3rd grade at Friendship Public Charter School Blow Pierce Campus
- Monique Phillips, 2009 Fellow
Monique Phillips is an Inspired Teaching Fellow and earned her Early Childhood certification. An avid artist, Monique worked a number of jobs before returning to school to pursue her Bachelor’s degree in Art Studio at the University of Maryland. While studying art, Monique simultaneously enrolled in a number of education courses to prepare herself to enter the classroom upon graduation. Monique is eager to bring her artistic nature into the classroom and is passionate about working toward educational equity for all students.
“Being an Inspired Teaching Fellow means that I will have the support to become the best teacher I can be, to be part of a network of passionate educators dedicated to finding creative and engaging ways facilitate learning.”
Currently teaching Pre-K at West Education Campus.
- Chelsea Rae Prax, 2009 Fellow
Chelsea Rae Prax is a 2009 Secondary English Language Arts Inspired Teaching Fellow. She is a graduate of Carleton College, where she received a B.A. in French and Francophone Studies. Chelsea Rae’s love of educating was sparked when she became involved with the Breakthrough Collaborative in Minneapolis in 2007, and she is passionate about working with high needs schools.
“Youth often remind me of the necessity of honesty, frank conversation, individuality, and questions. Young people demonstrate the beautiful process of growth, and show me the delicate dance of vulnerability and confidence that makes education possible.”
Currently teaching 9th grade at Archbishop Carrol.
- John Price, 2010 Fellow
John Price is a Secondary English Language Arts Fellow with Center for Inspired Teaching. John double majored at University of Wisconsin, Madison and graduated in 2005. He has many years of experience working with children as a camp counselor, referee, and most recently as a teacher’s assistant with Martha’s Table. John looks forward to continuing his work in with young people as they always offer a “fresh perspective.”
“I believe the teaching process works best when both teacher and student benefit from the experience.”
- Perrine Punwani, 2010 Fellow
Perrine Punwani is in the Secondary English Language Arts track of the Inspired Teacher Certification Program. Perrine is an alumna of George Washington University and Yale University. She has engaged young learners as a tutor and mentor since her time as an undergraduate here in DC. Perrine looks forward to teaching because it gives her an opportunity to connect with the community and make a difference at home.
“To be an Inspired Teaching Fellow means that I need to bring new life to some classrooms. It means that I can and am expected to innovate.”
Currently teaching 7th and 8th grade at Hardy Middle School
- Olivia Rhoads, 2010 Resident
Olivia Rhoads is a Early Childhood Education Resident in the Inspired Teacher Certification Program. Olivia received a B.A. in international affairs from the University of Mary Washington and has used her knowledge and her Spanish language skills in her work with Students Helping Honduras. She successfully coordinated service trips for over 200 volunteers as well as planned and implemented after school programs for Honduran students. Olivia has recently worked as a Teaching Fellow at Capital City Public Charter School, and is thrilled to be able to continue there in the upcoming year.
Currently a Pre-K – Kindergarten Teaching Resident at Capital City Public Charter School - Rachel Richard, 2010 Fellow
Rachel Richard is a 2010 Inspired Teaching Fellow on the Elementary Education track. After receiving her Bachelor’s degree from Baker University, she earned a Master’s degree in Women’s Studies and Gender Studies at Loyola University Chicago. Rachel has a long history of working with children and always knew she wanted to be a teacher. Her work with 5th grade students in DC convinced her to make the transition to teaching.
“I want to learn what patience and trust means to my students, because I believe those are key qualities for a successful classroom.”
Currently teaching 1st-2nd grade at Friendship Public Charter School Blow Pierce Campus
- Allison Rose, 2009 Fellow
Allison Rose is an Inspired Teaching Fellow from the Elementary Education track. She graduated from UNC Chapel Hill Cum Laude in 2008 with a degree in Public Policy and Sociology. After graduation, she received a fellowship to live and study in Israel for a year. Allison worked with Inspired Teaching as a Research Assistant during the summer of 2007 and is excited to join the team again in her new role as a 2009 Fellow.
“I can only hope that what my high school math teacher, and mentor, said is true: that from my students I will learn the true reach of my compassion, patience, and optimism.”
Currently teaching 2nd grade at Elsie Whitlow Stokes Public Charter School.
- Amy Saint, 2010 Resident