Jennifer Gonzalez started teaching Middle School English 20 years ago. When, after a few years, she realized that she preferred working with younger children, she shifted to kindergarten, and 13 years ago she joined the FAA in New Milford (now our Englewood campus), where she currently teaches first and second grade English classes. She is a well-respected colleague and beloved teacher, with a real knack for shaping her students into young writers. It was a pleasure to chat with her and ask her our three questions for the April Teacher Spotlight!

1. Why do you teach?

I teach because I love working with children and helping them work to understand new concepts. I enjoy being a witness to their wonder, their curiosity, and the pride that they take in the knowledge they are building. Kids are so excited to learn! It’s fun to witness their sense of fulfillment as they see their efforts pay off. 

2. What do you appreciate about teaching at the French American Academy? 

First, at a bilingual school we have a lot of diversity. Our students come from all over the world, and each one brings different experiences and perspectives. That’s a wonderful thing. 

I also love coteaching. Working with my French colleagues, I’ve observed different styles of teaching, which has helped me to improve. I appreciate being exposed to many different points of view. 

Finally, we are lucky here because of the flexibility we have. If there’s a subject we are passionate about, we are encouraged to adapt that into lessons. We can do interesting projects, and if kids have a particular topic they’re curious about, we can follow along with their inquiries to satisfy their curiosity. 

3. Are there any projects or activities that you’re particularly excited for this spring?

Springtime is when all the writing practice we have done throughout the year starts to coalesce into impressive, interesting projects for our students. 

In first grade, we are starting to do informational writing. I love this unit because kids get to choose the topic they want to write about and present, so they have a real sense of interest and ownership. We go through the steps of informational writing, and through that, the students produce an “all about” book. They love to do it and to share it with others, and take so much pride in what they’ve achieved. 

In second grade, we specifically study the Lenape people, who are a tribe of indigenous people in this part of New Jersey. We learn about the customs and cultures of the Lenape, and I tie in quite a bit of the local history as well. I love it because it is really close to home: for kids who are from New Jersey, they can learn more about their state, and for people from other places, it’s a way to get to know New Jersey better. The second graders produce their own “all about” book at the end of this unit, as well.