New faces have been seen around the Edmond Memorial High School building, one of them being Yessika Silva. Silva is the newest teacher to join the EMHS team, teaching Spanish I and II. She hopes to make a lasting impact on students while also teaching them about her native language and culture.
Before becoming a teacher, Silva studied at Dr. Rafael Belloso Chacín University in Maracaibo, Venezuela, at the age of 16, where she obtained a bachelor’s in administration with a minor in marketing.
“University was a life experience that I still remember with much love,” Silva said. “It really taught me how to become a responsible adult.”
After finishing university, she began working in the petroleum industry, and during the time, Silva was also a dancer. She eventually became a dance instructor, where she remained for seven years which were some of her favorite life experiences, and also where she found her passion for teaching.
“Interacting with students and getting to know them more each day was really a driving force for becoming a teacher.” Silva said.
Since moving to the United States four years ago, Silva has been working hard to learn more English and the culture of this country. She wanted to begin her teaching career in the U.S. because it would be a great way to impact the lives of many students and help them become a part of a productive society.
“I love teaching,” Silva said. “I enjoy helping students and being a part of their lives, and as an immigrant I think it is important for me to help in teaching my native language.”
Prior to joining the EMHS team, Silva worked at Edmond North High School as a special education teacher, a time she can only describe as marvelous. After coming to EMHS, she connected deeply with her new colleagues and students. She also tries to know more about her students each day to make sure they remain interested in her lessons and hold onto that knowledge.
“I feel so happy being a part of a fantastic work team and a school that has built an amazing educational culture,” Silva said. “Everyone here is friendly and support one another”
Even with all the challenges that may come with teaching in a foreign country, Silva ensures she is providing her students with a high quality education that they will remember many years from now. Although she acknowledges she has a long road ahead of her, she plans to stay at EMHS to continue inspiring the next generations of students.
Contact Noelia Ocampo at [email protected]
