Rachele Aloe, Memorial School, Maywood
Mrs. Rachele Aloe is a Spanish teacher at Memorial School in Maywood, teaching Kindergarten through third grade. She has been teaching at Memorial School for 11 years. Mrs. Aloe feels that it is important to teach languages at a young age. She feels that the early study of a second language promotes cultural understanding and a positive attitude toward diversity.
* When and why did you decide to become a teacher?
I decided to become a teacher during my sophomore year in college. Originally, I wanted to become a pediatrician. I was taking Spanish and Italian courses and decided it would be interesting to teach foreign languages. I had a wonderful teacher in high school, Mr. DeCurtis, who made learning languages fun and decided to follow that path and I’m glad I did. I also wanted to work with children.
* What high school/college did you attend? What degrees or certifications do you currently hold?
Cardinal Spellman High School (Bronx, N.Y.); College of Mt. St. Vincent (Riverdale, N.Y.). I have a B.A. in Spanish and Italian with a 7-12 grade certification, and hold a K-8 elementary certification. I also have 30 credits in Spanish from Fordham University (Bronx, N.Y.).
* Do you hold any education-related awards or achievements?
New Jersey Governor’s Teacher of the Year Award for 2007.
* Do you intend to further your own education at some point? What plans do you have? I attend foreign language workshops regularly and plan to continue. In this way, I network with other foreign language educators and improve my skills and techniques in the classroom.
* What was your favorite subject as a student?
My favorite subject was English.
* Who has been the most inspirational “teacher” to you? In what way did he/she influence you?
My 8th grade English teacher Mr. McLarkey was amazing. His class was always interesting and he actually made diagramming sentences fun! We had many intelligent discussions in class and he sparked my interest in the English language and my love of reading.
* What do you like most about being a teacher?
I like working with young children. They always keep me on my toes and active. I enjoy watching them learn and grow. They are a diverse, fun group and I learn from hearing their perspective. I try to promote a comfortable, positive environment in the classroom.
* What is the most challenging part about being a teacher? The most challenging part is meeting the needs of so many diverse students. We have gifted, special education and average students in the same classroom. I’m always experimenting and looking for interesting and imaginative ways to teach Spanish and reach every student.
* What challenges do teachers have today that did not exist years ago?
We live in a more complex, ever-changing, global society. We are dealing with a more diverse student body. We have more divorce and many parents need to work. With inclusion, we need to address many issues such as meeting the needs of special children and developing a curriculum for so many learning styles.
* What is your most memorable moment as a teacher?
My most memorable moment was being awarded the New Jersey Governor’s Teacher of the Year Award in 2007. It was a wonderful feeling to be recognized by my peers.
* What, in your opinion, is the most important lesson that one can be taught?
Always believe in yourself. If you do, no matter what happens in your life, you will persevere. Others may try to discourage you, but never give up. It’s contagious. When you respect yourself, others will too. Also, life is precious – be thankful for what you have and never take things for granted.
* What lessons have you learned through the teaching profession?
First of all, the teaching profession has taught me to be patient and tolerant. As a teacher, you need to be sensitive to your students’ needs and really listen and observe. I’ve also learned to be persistent and flexible. When something doesn’t work, you try other ways to teach it. You can’t give up.
* What are you favorite hobbies?
My hobbies include reading, gardening, and spending time with my family. I am a voracious reader of all kinds of material. I also enjoy walking and watching movies. I like to try new recipes and have a varied cookbook collection.
* What is your favorite book/music/movies? Why?
My favorite book is “Gone with the Wind.” I read it twice. It takes place during the Civil War which interests me. I also loved the movie. I enjoyed the movie “Titanic.” The history of the ill- fated ship fascinates me. I enjoy listening to soft rock and oldies from the ’60s and ’70s because they relax me and bring back memories.
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A message from the principal, Ray Bauer
Memorial students take several special subjects during the year which serve to create a well-rounded curriculum and help to enhance their school experience.
Introducing our “Specials”: This year, we welcomed our new music teacher, Ms. Jennifer Bergevin, who shares our new and active art/ music room with Ms. Claire Palm, our art teacher. Our “traveling” teachers are Senora Rachele Aloe who teaches “Espanol” and our R.E.A.C.H teacher, Mrs. Beth Brislin. Our gym teachers, Mr. Keith Timmins and Mrs. Sharon Francin teach physical education in our beautiful new gymnasium. We also welcomed our new ESL teacher, Ms. Kerry Nicolich. Next door to her is our Basic Skills teacher, Mrs. Helen Bonafede. Our Reading Specialist is Ms. Patty Donovan.
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ESSAY:
MY TEACHER: Mrs. Aloe makes the grade – BY HANNA K
When I was in 3rd grade, Mrs. Aloe was my Spanish teacher. She is a very kind teacher. On Spanish holidays, she teaches students the Spanish tradition. She even helps students easily remember Spanish words by making fun songs. These are the reasons she is so nice.
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