Sonnia's+Page

Hello, my name is Sonnia E. I am originally from Ecuador and I have been living in this country for 20 years. I have a bachelor’s degree in business administration in Ecuador. Here I attended Kean University for 4 years. I worked in different jobs such as in a hotel Lobby as an attendant for 4 years, as an ERA Associate of real-estate, in a bank, as a substitute, and as a pre-K teacher assistant. Now I work for the Elizabeth Board of Education as a pre-K teacher. My current career goal is to earn my P3 certification so I can continue to work as a pre-school teacher. If I could be in any show I would choose American Idol. I consider myself an honest, kind-hearted, responsible, and careful person. I am married and have two boys and a beautiful granddaughter.

Journal Entry 9/9


 * Journal Entry 9/16 **

**Families headed by gays and lesbians** __//Chapter 3 pg.65 //__ //“Gay and lesbian parents and their children can be subject to prejudice, which can lead to loss of physical custody, restrictions on visitation, and prohibitions against adoption. ” //

** Personal Reflection: ** I do believe that homosexual adoption should be allowed. I believe that restricting them from adoption is wrong. Some may argue that gay adoption shouldn’t be allowed because the child will grow up without the mother and father figure. A straight couple and a homosexual couples provide the same role to the child: a structured parental establishment. Children raised with homosexual parents grow up to be happy, healthy, and well adjusted like children of heterosexual parents. Sonia:I agree with you that more states in our country should allow homosexual couples to be able to adopt children. The important aspect of allowing a couple to adopt a child is to provide a safe, loving and nurturing environment. The sexual orientation of a couple does not determine the kind of parents that they are, and they should be allowed the same opportunities than heterosexual couples to adopt a child. Nidieska Tobar

**History Class History class Descriptions** __Chapter 3 pg.72 __ “Lower working class families are distinguished by their lack of education, skills, and their low-paying jobs. Many adults in lower working class have not received a high school diploma; and because salaries have declined significantly in the last 30 years, it becomes more difficult for this group of people to climb above the poverty line. **Personal Refection** First I believe that these parents should have finished their education when they were younger. There may have been financial problems that might have prevented them from continuing their studies as kids. I believe that these parents should be given the opportunity to complete their education now. This opportunity would give them the chance to change their circumstances, and change their personal environment.

**Homes families** __Chapter 3 pg.76 __ ** “ ** Children who are homeless tend to suffer from poor health, anxiety depression, and developmental delays. Some manage to attend school, but they often have poor attendance, behavior problems, and lower academic achievement that children who are housed.”

** Personal Reflection ** The physical, mental, and emotional toll that homeless children face today can be found world-wide, not only in United States. The programs offered to assist these kids do little to help them overcome these daily problems they face. We, as teachers and mentors, have the obligation to aid these kids who deserve not only a better life, but also an education. With an education, these kids have the opportunity to change the outcome of their future.

<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #0000ff; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Sonnia, <span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I have had many students from lower class families. I always have extra crackers for snack and make sure all students have lunch every day. I too will buy notebooks pencils, etc. for children that cannot provide items needed for school. In addition, I agree with you that we, as teachers, can provide a safe and positive atmosphere for all students so they can be successful learners. Carol Bono

Sonia, I think that the big reason why poverty must be eradicated in communities is because is the factor that has a major affect on children and the way they are nurtured. If the most basic needs of a child (food, shelter,& warmth) are not covered it will most likely have a negative influence in others needs like Safety, Belonging-ness and love, Esteem, and Self actualization (Maslow, 1968). Maria Esperanza G.

<span style="color: #800000; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Sonnia, <span style="color: #800000; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">I have also had many students, like Carol, who have been from lower class families as well as temporarily homeless. There are many programs out there that do assist but assistance comes with limitations. Last year, while I entered the classroom mid-year, I entered a classroom with a student who was homeless. The parent and I spoke frequently regarding their situation and our school as well as various community members did all we could to help. Having lived that experience, I have become more familiar with various programs that are offered and available for my students. As far as our school goes, we offer reduced prices breakfast and lunch programs, weekend snack pack programs so that the students would have food to last them over the weekend, and various other programs. In addition to those programs I also always have food in my classroom for my students. Those who don't have snack, it is always present in my classroom for them. We have developed a procedure where they don't need to ask. They know to go clean their hands with hand sanitizer before and go right into the closet and take out a pretzel rod, or whatever I have provided for them at the time. Also, I shop Staples penny sales throughout the summer and buy most to all supplies needed to at least kick off the school year; for example this year I bought 160 folder for $1.60 which is something I am willing to do. My goal as a teacher is to provide my students with the proper tools to achieve academic success throughout the year and in order for them to do that they need the proper supplies and nutrition. Some of those families, their parents and guardians do all they can to get them everything they need and fall short in the end. Especially during our current economical times, spending money can be difficult and even though I am not their parent or guardian, for 7 hours out of the day, I am the one that needs to not only have their best interests at heart but also the person that needs to make sure I provide a safe, secure, and nurturing environment for them that additionally fosters their learning. At age 10, some of their life stories are more than most experience in a lifetime, and in order to ask them to put those memories and worries aside, you need to be able to provide an environment that keeps them actively engaged and allows them to leave that baggage at the door and enter the room with a clean head, ready to learn. Teaching isn't an easy profession. We no longer are expected to teach curriculum and go home; we need to be nurses, psychologists, parents, doctors, friends, teachers, etc. The list goes on for a lifetime. You couldn't be more write when you say that we, as teachers, need to help to provide these innocent young minds with the opportunities they deserve. <span style="color: #800000; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">-Amy


 * Interviewer’s **


 * Name__Sonnia__Estremera_ Date_9/20/11 **

__** Location of Interview **__**Elizabeth_**


 * Interviewee’s Initials_BG_ __ Gender ____Female___**


 * Parent Interview **


 * 1. ** ** Are you a parent or guardian of a child? Please explain. **


 * I am the mother of a 13 years old girl. **


 * 2. ** ** How many children do you have? What are their ages? **


 * I have one (1) child . 13 years old **


 * 3. ** ** What languages are spoken in your household? **


 * Both English and Spanish **


 * Is there a primary language that is used? Please explain. **


 * The language we most speak at home is Spanish. **


 * 4. ** ** What are some expectations you have for your child? **


 * I expect success for my child in life. I hope she can accomplish her goals and be a good citizen who contributes to the society with Christian values. **


 * 5. ** ** What kind of relationship do you have with your child?. **


 * I believe I can play different roles in life and maintain a good relationship with my daughter. I can be a mother, a friend, and a teacher at the same time and be there for her when she needs me. **


 * 6. ** ** What are your household daily routines? Consider your morning, afternoon, and evening rituals. **


 * My day begins very early in the morning, 5:30 A.M, I wake up my daughter and, while she takes a bath, I prepare breakfast. She eats her breakfast and takes the bus to go to the school. I go work and, at 4:30 P.M., my daughter calls me to inform me that she is on her way home. Once I get home we review the homework (if needed) and talks about our day. Some days of the week, we go to the church at night, when not, we go to the bed around 10 or 11:00 P.M. **


 * 7. ** ** What is your current occupation or profession? **


 * I am Marketing representative for HealthFirst NJ Medicare Plan. **


 * 8. ** ** What kind of relationship do you currently have with your child’s teacher? How often do you communicate with your child’s teacher? **


 * I try to maintain a good relationship with my daughter’s teachers. I usually do not have issues with my daughter’s school and I keep track of all her activities and grades through Power school system. If I have any question or concern, I usually send teachers emails and if necessary, ask for an appointment. **


 * 9. ** ** What is your personal view of the school that your child attends? Did you choose this school? My daughter attends a Gifted and talented school that was recently selected as a 2011 National Blue Ribbon School. Students do not choose that type of school. They are selected for their grade and/or behavior. I am very happy and proud that my daughter was selected to attend this school and will support her in all her challenges. **


 * 10. ** ** Please describe the neighborhood where you live. **


 * We live in north Elizabeth. This is a very quiet and peaceful place where children can play outside. **


 * 11. ** ** What is a high priority for your family? **


 * The priority for my family is God. The united and the good communication are also important. Provide my family with a safe place and a stable environment. **


 * 12. ** ** Are you currently involved in any physical activities with your child? Does your child exercise or play sports? **


 * She plays sports at school and attends dance classes. **


 * 13. ** ** Is your child engaged in extracurricular activities? If yes, which ones? **


 * My daughter participates in dance extracurricular activities at school. **


 * 14. ** ** What kind of disciplinary strategies do you use at home? **


 * At home, I implement different disciplinary strategies such as limit the computer time, assign some housework or control the use of cell phone. **


 * 15. ** ** Give examples of some rules that you have in your home. What are some consequences? Homework must be done before computer use. On weekends my daughter helps with the cleaning task and on Sundays, we go to the church. If some rule is broken, I talk to her and try to find solutions. In an extremely situation, I take her cell phone away. **


 * 16. ** ** How would you describe your child’s behavior in public? **


 * My daughter is like a normal 13 years old girl. Her behavior in public is better than when she is at home. **


 * 17. ** ** What does family time consist of? What do you do as a family during your free time? **


 * As a Christian family, we pray together, some nights during the week, we study the bible and eat dinner together. Sometimes we watch movies together. **


 * 18. ** ** What hopes or dreams do you have for your child’s future? **


 * I encourage my daughter to pursue her dreams. I attend to all her plays in school and try to take her priorities as mine. I interact with her friends and learn about them. I refer to them by their names when talking to my daughter. I find this very important since, by doing this I show her that I care about her world. I hope she has determination when pursuing her goals in life. **


 * 19. ** ** How are you preparing for your child’s future? **


 * My daughter will be attending grade 9 next year. We are considering what high school would be the best for her. We talk about career for college but she is not pretty clear about what she wants to be. I tell her to begin with the end in mind when we talk about the future and do not give up. **


 * Anecdotal Observation of Parenting Style **

I consider her to be a responsible person in many aspect of her life. She takes the role as a mother very serious. When implementing rules in her house, she is very consistent. She does not break them, but at the same time, she is a flexible. There are some discipline strategies that can never be changed such as permission to go to visit friends that she does not know and have not met their parents. She does not accept disrespectfulness to teachers or other people from her daughter. In the other, she is a very happy person and share that happiness with her daughter, With a positive attitude.

Sonnia, I believe this mother to be an authoritative parent. She clearly has set rules and is loving in nature. She must be so proud of her daughter and all of her accomplishments. Her deep faith and use of good communication clearly shows that she sets boundaries and is supportive. For example she states, "some nights we read the bible together" and " I attend to all her plays in school and try to take her priorities as mine" Carol Bono

<span style="color: #00afff; font-family: Georgia,serif; font-size: 120%;">Sonia

<span style="color: #00afff; font-family: Georgia,serif; font-size: 120%;">I agree with Carol's appreciation that the way the mother in your interview refers to some of her answers, you can see the quality of her relationship with her daughter and the authoritative style of parenting.

<span style="color: #00afff; font-family: Georgia,serif; font-size: 120%;">-Maria Esperanza

Sonnia,

I agree with Carol and Maria in saying this mother is of the Authoritative style. While friendly and nurturing she also seems to hold the bar high and set concrete standards. Also, I thought it was great to see that Elizabeth keeps an active role in her daughters education. Power school is a great way to bridge the gap that can form between schools and families in addition to allow parents to play a more active role in their child's academic life.

- Amy Lupardi

Hi Sonnia,

I like how the mother you interviewed keeps track of her daughters grades through power point. She also values her relationship with her daughter. At the same time keeps a authoritative way of running her home. Kavya

Journal Entry 10/01/11 Sonnia Estremera

1**.- Describe the community where you teach.** The community where I teach is very diverse. Over 40 countries are represented in my school including Russia, China, Japan, Afghanistan, Egypt, Italy and many others. This fact makes the Elizabeth learning community very complex. In my school, many teachers and assistants are fluent in the English and Spanish languages but only a few are fluent in other languages. 2.-**How do you increase cultural awareness at you school.** Cultural awareness is a key component to a healthy and successful community. In my classroom this awareness is encourages on a daily basis. The children are exposed to music, books, props, and dolls from many different countries. We also have different celebrations throughout the year including the Chinese New Year, Kwanza, Hanukah, and a multicultural week where children wear costumes from different countries and they learn and dance with the music from different countries. Parents are also invited to share their culture by reading books, singing songs, and showing items representing their countries. 3**.- How do you collaborate with the parents? Give examples.** Parents are the first teacher for their child and the information that they teach their children is very important. In our school, before the children arrives inside the classroom for the first time, we send them a questionnaire where they share valuable information with us. Once the school year starts, and depending on the students needs and abilities, we meet with parents to discuss their progress by providing progress reports three times a year. But not all the parents have the skills to better help their children; this is why the school has the responsibility to offer different workshops to educate parents on certain areas including discipline, nutrition, and how to help children at home to develop academic skills. We also have many parents with special needs children, so we also provide support to help them to understand their children and help them. 4.- ** What are some challenges that you face? ** My job is always challenging: every year I have to become a new person, so that I am able to help my students out. One the challenges that I face as a teacher is the inclusion classroom. Most of the time, the children arrive to the classroom with special needs and the teachers don’t have the necessary knowledge and strategies to work with them. It is very challenging when you have three children with special needs, IEP’s, and special education, though it is not you are not qualified for that. It’s also very challenging when parents speak a third language other than Spanish and English: it creates a barrier between the communication. Another challenge is when parents do not embrace the learning of a second language, because they believe that is not good for their children. I believe staff members and leaders provide teachers with more training to better educate inspire and help every single child. 5.- ** List you top 5 classroom priorities. ** 1. Children safety 2. Create an inviting environment where children can learn at their own pace with their own abilities. A place where they can feel good about themselves by helping in the classroom and to be valued as human beings. 3. To educate and challenge 4. To inspire 5. To encourage children to make good decisions in life and be self-educated

Hi Sonia: It sounds like this teacher is very committed to her/his students' learning, and that she/he is focused and dedicated every day to this task. I like the inclusion of the parents to celebrate cultural events with their children. I think that this a great motivator for the kids, and for the parents to make them feel valued and included in the learning process. I also <span style="color: #ff0000; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">think that this teacher has a very good understanding of the importance of collaboration by implementing such a good idea of sending a questionnaire to the parents to obtain important information to be able to report children's progress thru the school year. I understand this teacher's frustration with parents who do not embrace learning of a second language. As a former Spanish Teacher myself, I faced this challenge many times when parents did not see the value of their kids performing well on that class, as they though that it was not important or useful. In today's constantly changing world where we interact financially, socially, and culturally with many other nations, our kids need to be prepared with the highest level of education, which includes being able to communicate in other languages. <span style="color: #ff0000; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Nidieska Tobar

<span style="color: #008000; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**My Reflection: October 6, 2011**

<span style="color: #008000; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**“Are There Other Kids Like Me?”** <span style="color: #008000; display: block; font-family: 'trebuchet ms',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%; text-align: center;"> **Children with a Parent in Prison by****Kerri L. Clopton & Katheryn K. East**

<span style="color: #008000; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">This article gives a lot of examples on how these children suffer in this situation. I never really thought about this particular subject because I didn't really think it was such a life affect in their lives. These children suffer and think of this situation daily and it is something that marks them for the rest of their lives. Children who have one or their parents in prison, need a lot of help in order for them not to feel alone or different. For example, going to school for any child, having a parent in prison or not, they all go through a lot of situations at home that their peers don’t know about but that’s just normal we all go through problems. Now imagine the pain and sadness these children go through thinking on a daily bases that "Oh I am the only one with a parent in prison". This is why we have to reach out to these kids so they know that there not the only ones.

<span style="color: #008000; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">Having this problem these children have to probably change from their schools, or move out of their neighborhoods and start somewhere new. I believe that these children do not have to change from schools or start new. This situation of their parents being in prison doesn't mean they have to change their lives just because of a mistake their parents made. These kids should be able to continue their normal lives not change everything because of their parents. For example in this article it showed that some percentage of mothers go to prison and their children have to stay in foster homes perhaps because they don’t have another family member around I don’t think that is right. Even if they are living with their grandparents it is still not the same as living with your mother or father.

<span style="color: #008000; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">What was really touching was learning about how difficult it is to communicate with an incarcerated parent. The article states that "families may have to travel long distance, long waits before being able to see them, also that phone calls to prison are very expensive" So being in a difficult situation where the parents are in prison is way harder when the child isn’t able to see them or talk to them.

Sonnia, I also stated that parents in prison wasn't even a topic of interest to me. In addition, I agree with you that these children need to feel that they are not alone. I will now try to be more aware of my students' backgrounds. During our morning routine, I now have a small bulletin board that states K-Kids News. This gives my students a chance to express what is important to them whether it relates to their families, events in the media, or anything they feel is news worthy. Their news is always interesting and I am finding out so much about their lives outside of school. Carol Bono

Hi sonnia You were right about families traveling long distance to visit someone that is incarcerated. When I was in high school I remembered my friends going to see their fathers that was in prison. Both of my friend's fathers were locked up in Up State NY. They left on a Friday night and reached they Saturday morning. I could not imagine how difficult it was, but they really loved their dad and they did this every other weekend. ~Shondell~

<span style="color: #0a80b5; font-family: Georgia,serif; font-size: 110%;">Sonia,

<span style="color: #0a80b5; font-family: Georgia,serif; font-size: 110%;">I can see this topic really impacted us, it may be because it is a recent issue in our students’ life or maybe because when we did our student teaching time this was not an open topic to revise in a school community, People normally think that this kind of thing are police business, but know we found out that it is also an educators business because of the enormous impact that this problem has in students and their families.

<span style="color: #0a80b5; font-family: Georgia,serif; font-size: 110%;">Maria Esperanza Gil

<span style="color: #800000; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Sonnia, <span style="color: #800000; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">I can only imagine the impact incarceration can have on children. Especially those who have had the chance to build a relationship with their mother or father and is of the age where they understand. Like I mentioned in my reaction, I had a student who started with me and had a father who was in prision in Massachussets. The impact it had on him was not only emotionally tramatic but physically as well. Since he was not with me for very long, I don't know what visitations were like, but I can only imagine that it was slim to none since it was quite a distance. I can only hope that him leaving this district was a step to move closer to his father so that he can have visitations from time to time. Distance and money are two of the major factors that can make that wall seem even greater as a child.

<span style="color: #800000; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Amy

Sonnia, I also find it heartbreaking to know that children with a family member in prison lose a personal connection. This would be especially devastating if it were a close relative like a mother or father. --Prof. Kunz