Melissa also brings her Filipino heritage into her teaching, helping students connect history lessons to a global context. For example, she has compared the colonization of the Philippines by Spain with the English colonization in America, offering students a broader perspective on historical events. This comparison helped students understand the broader context of colonization and its global implications.

Additionally, when discussing natural disasters, she used the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo, a major volcanic eruption in the Philippines in 1991, as an example. This not only enriched her lessons with real-world examples, but also allowed her students to learn about the impact of such events through a cultural lens. These connections fostered a deeper appreciation for both Melissa’s culture and the topics her students studied.

A dedicated advocate for inclusion, Melissa encourages her students to share their cultural backgrounds. She consciously seeks connections between cultures by asking her Spanish-speaking students to provide translations for vocabulary words in their native language. This not only validates their cultural identity but also illustrates the influence of different languages, such as how some Filipino words have Spanish roots.

Melissa also invited guest speakers to share their unique expertise, the most recent including a facilitator who specializes in Southwest Peoples to contribute to our Native American unit. This firsthand experience provided students with valuable insights and made the lesson more engaging and meaningful. By incorporating diverse perspectives and promoting open dialogue, Melissa aims to cultivate an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and respected.

Melissa’s hard work and dedication have been recognized in many ways. She was selected as Teacher of the Month and selected as team leader for her school’s small group, allowing her to collaborate closely with her colleagues and contribute to their collective goals. These achievements reflect her passion for education and her commitment to her students’ success.

Outside of the classroom, Melissa has found community in her parish choir, where she and her friends lend their voices to local events. A particularly special moment for her was singing a Tagalog song, introducing her heritage to her new community through music. In terms of American foods, living in the U.S. has only strengthened her love for steak and mashed potatoes, and she is a huge fan of Mexican corn!

Melissa has even been able to explore some U.S. states in her free time, and Colorado left its mark on her. The breathtaking landscapes, with their towering mountains and vibrant cities, were a striking contrast that reminded her of the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Another unforgettable destination for Melissa was New York City. She was captivated by the intricate planning of its subway system. Exploring the city’s renowned museums offered her a glimpse into diverse cultures and histories, broadening her understanding of art and society. The green oasis of Central Park, nestled in the heart of the bustling metropolis, stood out as a testament to the value of incorporating nature into urban spaces. These travels not only highlighted the interplay between nature, urban planning, and community well-being but also inspired Melissa to reflect on how different environments shape people’s lives.

Looking ahead, Melissa is excited to bring the lessons she’s learned back to her home country. She plans to introduce innovative teaching practices, including greater integration of technology and a focus on cultural awareness. She also hopes to build bridges between educators in the U.S. and her home country, fostering collaboration and shared learning opportunities. Melissa’s willingness to embrace new experiences and share her culture has created a lasting impact on her students, her colleagues, and the communities she has touched.