Time for a new set of teacher spotlights and this month we'll focus on our 2nd grade teachers. First up is Sra. Maria Arbelo, who is new to R.H. Dana this year, and teaching both English and Spanish in her class. She has been teaching for 11 years, and we are so excited to have her at R.H. Dana.
Name: Maria Arbelo
Birth Date & Place: September 17th in Miami, Florida
Favorite Childhood Book: The Tale of Despereaux
Favorite Color: Purple
Favorite Song: What a Wonderful World
Favorite Ice Cream: Chocolate
Favorite Hobby: Reading
Family/Pets: Husband Felix, sons Alec (30), Erik (29), and Christopher (27), and dog Ellie.
What do you love about teaching? I love watching students learn and grow both academically and socially. I also love seeing things through their eyes and discovering and learning along with them.
What are you afraid of? I am afraid of heights.
What are you proud of? I am proud of my parents for their courage and bravery when they left Cuba to seek freedom. I am proud of my husband and sons for the amazing men they are. And, I am proud of my students for working hard and persevering!
What are you looking forward to? I am looking forward to a wonderful year with my students filled with laughter and joy of learning!