Teaching Philosophy

As an Afro-Latino male deeply committed to equity, inclusion, and liberation, my teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that education should catalyze societal transformation and empowerment. Central to my approach is recognizing that every student brings unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths to the learning environment. Therefore, I strive to create a classroom culture that celebrates diversity, fosters belonging, and promotes critical consciousness. By embracing a culturally responsive and inclusive pedagogy, I seek to validate and affirm the identities of all learners, particularly those who have historically been marginalized or underrepresented.

Furthermore, I firmly believe in centering social justice and equity in curriculum design and instructional practices. Through an intentional focus on issues of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, ability, and socioeconomic status, I aim to challenge systemic inequalities and empower students to become agents of change in their communities. By facilitating meaningful discussions, promoting civic engagement, and encouraging critical inquiry, I aspire to cultivate a learning environment where students feel empowered to question the status quo, advocate for justice, and contribute to advancing equity and liberation.

Moreover, I am committed to creating opportunities for students to engage in experiential learning, collaborative problem-solving, and authentic assessment practices that reflect real-world contexts and experiences. By incorporating diverse perspectives, interdisciplinary approaches, and culturally relevant resources into my teaching, I seek to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. Additionally, I recognize the importance of building authentic relationships with students based on trust, respect, and empathy. By fostering a supportive and inclusive classroom community, I strive to create a space where students feel valued, heard, and empowered to take risks and pursue their passions.

My teaching philosophy centers on promoting equity, inclusion, and liberation in education. I prioritize exposing students to diverse perspectives through readings by scholars like Scot Danforth, Kimberlé Crenshaw, Chris Emdin, Gloria Ladson-Billings, Christopher Cormier, Bettina Love, and others. By developing academic vocabulary and critical thinking skills, I aim to empower students to challenge dominant narratives and advocate for social change. Through intentional instruction and scaffolded reading experiences, I cultivate a learning environment where students feel empowered to engage in scholarly dialogue and contribute meaningfully to a more equitable society.