Treasure Forest 2013 Teacher of the Year - Mirith Ballestas De Barroso

Mirith Ballestas De Barroso
Treasure Forest Elementary
Fifth-Grade Bilingual Teacher

Education: State Board of Educator Certification, Elementary Self-Contained/Bilingual/ESL, 2003, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Colombia, Master of Education, 2001, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Colombia, Specialist in Pedagogical Processes, 1998, Centro Experimental Piloto de La Guajira, Colombia, Certified Teacher, 1993, Universidad de Cartagena, Cartegena, Colombia, Civil Engineer Degree, 1978

Teaching History: Treasure Forest Elementary School, Fifth Grade/Bilingual/21st Century Academic Tutor, 2002-Present, Colegio Albania, La Guajira, Colombia, 5th-8th Grade Math and Group Director,1990-2002, Idiomas & Idiomas Language Institute, Barranquilla,Colombia, Spanish/English Teacher, 1986-1990

In her own words: “One of my main goals in my classroom has always been to help every child develop self-concept and self-esteem. I strive to offer opportunities for my students to become more independent and to be able to make the right decisions on their own. I know my students will not be in my classroom forever. I hope every day to have taught them certain lessons that go beyond the school setting.”

“Education is everyone’s responsibility. Teachers and parents must work as partners with the school system for the success of children. Teachers need to get to know their students, motivate them to learn, and care about them. Parents need to help, they need to collaborate with teachers, and be present in their children’s school life.”

In the words of others: “Ms. Ballestas is an incredible human being. She always has encouraging words to motivate the team and maintains a positive attitude to accomplish challenges and tasks that arise.She is supportive, kind and respectful with everyone.” Maria Solorzano, Treasure Forest Interdisciplinary Coach

“Mrs. Ballestas de Barroso is an integral part of the science cadre in Spring Branch. She helps write and translate science curriculum for the district. “ Donald Burken, Elementary Science Lead/District Instructional Specialist

Selected Honors, Awards & Activities:
Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts (TCTELA)
Science Facilitator/Trainer, 2012-2013
Clearwater Marine Aquarium Project, 2012
Campus Improvement Team (CIT), Treasure Forest Elementary, 2009-2011
Teacher of the Year, Treasure Forest Elementary, 2008
Jaycees International Officer of the Year, 1983

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