Valeria Guzik, Second Grade Teacher

What motivated and inspired you to teach?

I wanted to do something that mattered and made a difference in someone's life. It is amazing to think that we (teachers) have the opportunity to change students' lives and shape the next generation.

Why are you excited to come to ESD every day?

The students. They are the reason I chose to teach. They bring me so much joy everyday. I love seeing the world through their eyes.

Beyond your subject-area or discipline, what life lesson do you want your students to learn in your classroom? 

I want them to learn to be kind to everyone. I want them to embrace their differences and those of others. I want them to be happy, grateful, and caring.

Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself! 

I love to do fun runs! I've done mud runs, foam runs, regular 5Ks, and obstacle races.

What is your favorite book and why? 

It is very difficult for me to pick a favorite. I absolutely love reading and am constantly switching between fiction and non-fiction. The first two that come to mind are The Power of Now and The Notebook. I love to learn new things and see things from different perspectives and I also love a good romantic story.

If you could have dinner with three people, alive or not, who would they be and why? 

It would have to be four people. I would love to see my grandparents again. I was too young when I lost them and now that I am an adult, I would love to get to know them better and get to hear their stories. I would ask them so many questions and I would like for them to meet my kids.