Greetings, I am Daisi Morales, a 22-year-old resident teacher at Teachers College of San Joaquin, currently pursuing my passion for education as a resident teacher at Ripon High School. In my role, I am tasked with teaching AP Geography and World Geography under the guidance of my mentor, Mr. Robert Mayfield.
Allow me to share a bit more about my journey and what has fueled my "why" in education. My roots trace back to Modesto, California, but I made the move to Manteca at the age of 12, where I continued to grow and flourish. I am a proud alumna of Sierra High School and subsequently earned my Bachelor's degree in History with a minor in Latin American Studies from Stanislaus State University. My academic journey was accompanied by a rich tapestry of experiences, from being a multi-sport athlete in high school, participating in soccer, softball, and golf, to my involvement in college as a member of the Phi Sigma Sigma sorority and as a dedicated contributor to Associated Students Incorporated (ASI) for Diversity at Stan State. One significant milestone was the opportunity to immerse myself in Spanish culture through a semester-long study abroad program in Spain in Fall 2021, expanding my horizons and worldview.
The driving force behind my aspiration to become an educator lies in my profound love for history. Whether delving into the annals of United States history, exploring the intricacies of world history, or uncovering the intriguing narratives of pop culture history, history has always been my compass. I firmly believe that in education, a teacher's passion for their subject can ignite a spark of inspiration in their students. One facet of education that particularly struck a chord with me is the underrepresentation of female educators in the field of Social Sciences. This issue resonated deeply with me, as my alma mater, Sierra High, had a predominantly male Social Studies department during my time there. I am committed to providing my students with a safe, nurturing environment where they can explore academic subjects freely and engage in discussions vital to their educational growth. History, I believe, serves as a constant and invaluable framework for understanding the trajectory of future events and the significance of current affairs.
My journey toward teaching took a significant turn during my sophomore year of high school when I assumed the role of a camp counselor for 6th graders. This experience kindled a desire to pursue a career in education.
Later, as a member of Future Teachers of America, I embarked on a quest to explore various teacher preparation programs across the country. It was my high school English teacher, Mr. Jeffery Greene, who served as a guiding light, helping me chart the path to where I stand today. His unwavering dedication to teaching and his mentorship inspired me to become the kind of teacher I aspire to be. I often reflect on the profound quote, "Be the teacher you needed as a child," a mantra that underscores the enduring importance of the teacher-student relationship in the ever-evolving landscape of education.
While the education system has evolved significantly over the years, one constant remains—the need for genuine care and love from educators toward their students. We, as educators, hold a pivotal role in the lives of our students, serving as their role models, guardians, and caretakers. We possess the profound ability to shape a child's life, for better or for worse, and the life lessons imparted in the classroom invariably find their way into the real world. It is a responsibility and privilege that I hold dear, motivating me to embrace my "why" in education and make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of the students I have the privilege of teaching.
Love, Daisi