Specialization
Portuguese Pedagogy
Research Focus
Understanding Language Development in Portuguese Dual Language Immersion Learners
Thesis Title
Exploring Verbal Agreement Challenges among Third-Grade Portuguese Dual Language Immersion Students: A Mixed Methods Study
Biography
I am a Brazilian educator with 20 years of experience teaching students across various grade levels. I have experience teaching at the elementary, junior high, and high school levels, including as an ESL teacher. I also worked in early childhood education at a bilingual school. In 2015, I moved to the United States and began teaching third grade in the Portuguese Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program in Utah, a role that I truly enjoy.
Currently, I am pursuing my MA in Portuguese Pedagogy at Brigham Young University, an experience that has greatly contributed to my personal, professional, and academic growth. Throughout my career, I have had the chance to speak at various education and language conferences, where I shared the strategies and insights I have gained over the years, especially those designed to help in the development of speaking skills. I am also involved in a project where my lessons are being recorded to help create demo lessons for the Utah DLI 6 Core Instructional Strategies for the Provo school district.
I was recently honored with the Golden Apple Award 22–23 for my dedication to best practices and providing high-quality learning experiences for my students. My passion lies in developing speaking skills in language learning, and I work to create continuous opportunities for my students to practice the target language throughout the school day. I am committed to fostering a classroom environment that encourages critical thinking, cultural awareness, and a love of language learning.
Academic Background
- Licentiate Degree in Pedagogy, FACECLA
- Postgraduate Degree in Music Education
- Endorsement: Dual Language Immersion
Future Goals
- Earn a PhD
Advice to Current or Future Graduate Students
Embrace the journey with resilience. Graduate studies require commitment, but the personal and professional growth is invaluable. Seek support from mentors, peers, and family, they'll sustain you through challenges. Stay organized, set goals, and take moments to rest and celebrate. Each challenge is a step forward, building your skills and understanding. Above all, believe in yourself and remember why you started; your dedication will make a lasting impact. Trust that Heavenly Father has brought you to this point for a reason and is guiding you every step of the way.
What I like about BYU
Studying at BYU has always been a dream of mine because of its renowned reputation and strong values. This dream is now becoming a reality, thanks to the professional track program, for which I am eternally grateful. This program has allowed me to balance family, work and learning. I knew that the MA in Portuguese Pedagogy would enhance my professional skills, but it has become so much more than I anticipated. My professors are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also know how to share that knowledge in a way that helps me recognize my own potential, believe in myself, and trust in my abilities. They seamlessly integrate every piece of content with gospel principles, deepening my personal growth and faith alongside my academic journey. This experience has brought me closer to my Savior and has been both fulfilling and empowering. Through BYU, I’ve been given incredible opportunities, from classes to conferences, and I am deeply grateful for the encouragement and knowledge my professors so genuinely share.
