My Story
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 survive. 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 D.C. 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 the value of education. Ironically, I am currently a 7th grade teacher, and I hope to do for my students what that man did for me so many years ago.
I am entering my 11th year teaching: I have taught seven years at the junior high level and three years at the high school level. I have a BA from Columbia College Chicago in Liberal Arts - Film/Video. In addition, I have a teaching credential and MA in Teaching from Biola University. I also have a Certificate in Teaching Writing, in lieu of a second master's degree, from California State University San Bernardino. 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 academic and personal growth. I love to write, especially screenplays, and hope to write something someday that is produced for the big screen.
In my personal life, I have been married to my wife Benyta for 14 years. Our son Maroeil will turn nine this September. I want for all of you what I want for my own son: to be happy and to grow both personally and academically. 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 am truly happy that our roads have crossed, and I am blessed to be your teacher this school year!
I am entering my 11th year teaching: I have taught seven years at the junior high level and three years at the high school level. I have a BA from Columbia College Chicago in Liberal Arts - Film/Video. In addition, I have a teaching credential and MA in Teaching from Biola University. I also have a Certificate in Teaching Writing, in lieu of a second master's degree, from California State University San Bernardino. 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 academic and personal growth. I love to write, especially screenplays, and hope to write something someday that is produced for the big screen.
In my personal life, I have been married to my wife Benyta for 14 years. Our son Maroeil will turn nine this September. I want for all of you what I want for my own son: to be happy and to grow both personally and academically. 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 am truly happy that our roads have crossed, and I am blessed to be your teacher this school year!