“As a teacher and parent within the Classical community, I'm privileged to witness firsthand how this same diverse environment continues to benefit generations of students. It is a powerful reminder that the lessons I learned at Classical – the importance of empathy, critical thinking, and embracing differences – are not just abstract concepts, but tangible tools for navigating an increasingly complex world. It is with this knowledge that I approach Women's History Month as a crucial time to reflect on the ongoing fight for equity. We must continue to acknowledge the importance of intersectionality – recognizing that women's experiences are not interchangeable. We must acknowledge the diverse realities shaped by race, class, sexual orientation and other identities, ensuring that all women's voices are heard and valued.”

"To me Women’s History is a time to highlight the myriad accomplishments of women from all over the world throughout history and into modern day. For centuries, what constitutes “history” has been almost entirely defined and chronicled by the white male perspective, leaving out significant contributions of many populations, women included. Recognizing these contributions is important for many reasons, not the least of which that young females grow up with a wide range of role models and envision themselves pursuing every and any path imaginable.

My experience as a PPSD student has been pivotal to me both personally and professionally. Growing up attending urban, integrated schools, I developed an early appreciation for differences and diversity which eventually grew into passion for justice and equity. Throughout my years at Classical, I always knew that I wanted to be an urban educator, providing city kids the same educational opportunities that students from more wealthy suburbs receive. When as an upper classman I began to notice that many of my classmates were from Spanish speaking homes and not only never spoke Spanish at school but were in many cases changing their names to something more “pronounceable” for English speakers, I realized that I wanted to go into bilingual urban education. My goal became to help young learners maintain their home culture and language while also becoming proficient in English. This goal fueled me to minor in Spanish which then lead to serving in the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic – an amazing experience that proved invaluable once I became a teacher here in Providence.

My commitment to Providence Schools and Providence students, a commitment that began when I was still in high school, has defined much of my life. I have dedicated my entire 26-yr career to the Spanish-speaking population of PPSD. In addition, I am a resident of the Elmwood neighborhood, and my daughter is also a Classical High School graduate. I am proud to be a PPSD graduate and now a PPSD Principal."

“Every struggle, every tear, every smile, every sacrifice, every victory, every story in my life has shaped me, made me who I am, and built the foundation of my empowerment today. I often say that your attitude in life determines your altitude today and the future. As a woman, I need to honor my sacrifices, my strength, my accomplishments and achievements, love myself, and stay strong, courageous, confident, persistent, resilient, and relentless for me and another important person in my life, my daughter. Every struggle and challenge we face today, turn it into a steppingstone for a better future that will allow us to stay empowered, confident, and be an influencer for others.”