Bunnies

Jennifer Martinez

I work in the mobile infant classroom, as a teacher's aide, my class consists of caring for walking babies 9 months to 18 months of age. I have been working here at Step By Step since 2019 and I’ve learned so much.

Education

Before I started working in the Early Education field, I already had some life experience of how to care for a baby, such as diaper changing and feeding schedules. Once I started working at Step by Step, I learned a better way of doing things through taking Early Childhood Development classes and with the help of the teacher and other aides that are in the classroom. I have continued taking classes and am continuing, with the goal of receiving my teaching permit for Early Childhood Education.

Teaching Philosophy

I believe that all children are unique and have their own way of obtaining knowledge, therefore they must have an entertaining educational environment where they can grow physically, mentally, socially and emotionally. I strongly believe that it's the teacher’s role to act as a guide. Children must have contact with hands-on activities so that they are able to make choices and let their curiosity direct their learning. What I love about working with children is that I have time to bond with them and set up activities that helps with their development. I enjoy being able to watch them grow, see how they obtain knowledge and watching their face light up when they discover something new.

How I Spend My Time

Outside my time as a teacher’s aide, I enjoy going on hikes and enjoying the beautiful mountain and lakes around us as well as spending time with friends and family.

Brittney Medina

I am a Teachers Assistant in our 2 to 3-year-olds classroom. I have been working with Step by Step since 2018 and have worked with all children ages birth to 9 years old.

Education

I am currently working on getting my Associate Teacher’s permit. At the same time, I will be graduating June of 2021 with a transfer degree in psychology. I am a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success and have the National Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish.

Teaching Philosophy

I believe that children need affection while learning. It builds their confidence and teaches them that it is okay to have feelings and to express them. I also want to instill a love of learning into my students and enjoy watching them learn and grow as they advance through our center and get older. I develop a relationship with each of my students and it’s tough to see them advance out of my class and move into the next. I do miss them, but I feel proud when I see them using the skills they learned in my class and being successful.

How I Spend My Time

In my spare time I enjoy making jewelry. I also like working out and running as I enjoy the beautiful scenery around South Lake Tahoe.