Dear Superintendent Hernandez, 
 

My name is Christine Rodriguez, and I am a passionate and dedicated special education teacher at Jonas Bronck Academy (MS/HS 228) in the Bronx, NY.
 

Growing up in the Bronx with immigrant parents who deeply valued education, I learned the significance of perseverance and the joy of celebrating every accomplishment, big or small. These values instilled in me a profound respect for learning and a drive to pursue meaningful goals. My journey into teaching, however, was shaped by a deeply personal experience.
 

As a young mother, I faced the challenge of my son, Elias, struggling with language development. At the age of three, he spoke fewer than 10 words. Despite tirelessly seeking help, my concerns were often dismissed. Refusing to give up, I took matters into my own hands, dedicating myself to working with him every day to help him reach his potential. That experience not only taught me resilience but also inspired my passion for helping others overcome obstacles and thrive.
 

Through this challenging yet rewarding process, I witnessed Elias’ growth and discovered the transformative power of education and perseverance. I instilled in him a deep appreciation for learning and personal growth, and in turn, I fell in love with teaching. This experience profoundly shaped my teaching philosophy and fuels my commitment to helping students overcome challenges, celebrate progress, and recognize their potential.
 

Since joining the Jonas Bronck Academy community in September 2021, I have had the privilege of teaching and inspiring students in grades 6 through 9 in both integrated co-teaching and self-contained settings. My mission is to create an inclusive learning environment where all students feel empowered and supported in their educational journey. I approach teaching with intention, thoughtfully modifying lessons to meet the diverse needs of my students and ensuring they feel valued and capable.
 

My passion for teaching students with disabilities is driven by the joy of guiding them through challenging concepts and witnessing their transformative growth. Seeing a student overcome what once seemed impossible and emerge with newfound confidence is the most rewarding part of my role. This journey of discovery and achievement is at the heart of my teaching philosophy, where progress is celebrated over perfection. By reminding students that challenges are opportunities for growth, I strive to help them develop resilience and a sense of pride in their accomplishments.
 

Reflecting on my journey as a teacher, I recognize it has been both challenging and rewarding. Being part of the Jonas Bronck Academy community has made it all the more fulfilling. The collaboration, unwavering support, and genuine care from both the staff and administration have created an environment where I feel valued and inspired every day to continue my career in teaching.
 

Thank you, Superintendent Hernandez, for taking the time to review my work and for your thoughtful consideration. It would be an honor to be granted tenure in District 10 that will allow me to continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students.