Casa Teacher Interview: Ms. Karla

Get to know Ms. Karla! Ms. Karla has worked with all three classroom levels. She has enjoyed working with everyone as each developmental stage is very different. Originally from Honduras, she was very excited to have found Casa as she feels like this is the perfect place for her to be at! Read more about who Ms. Karla is, and why she loves everyone associated with Casa! 

Why did you choose Casa?

I chose Casa because it was in line with my values, convictions, and my beliefs. Minnesota is also a very special place for me so that was an added bonus that I got to work at Casa in a state that I love! I love that Casa takes care of the environment, provides healthy food for our children, and does everything else they do. I just think it’s a great way to live. It’s amazing to see this message being spread to our families. 

What is your favorite Casa core value and why?

I would have to say Perpetual Growth. I think this is the core value that is the backbone of Casa because without growth we cannot continue to listen to our community and provide the proper care that children need. This core value has helped me, during my time at Casa, continue to move forward and become a better person in all aspects of my life. 

How would you describe your classroom? 

Filled with energy, different sets of abilities, a lot of potential, and a world to discover! I love that these children have so much ahead of them and that they are having a great starting point. Another thing I will say is that in my classroom I always get really involved in everything concerning the curriculum and I am one-hundred-percent dedicated to my class. You will always see me sitting on the floor with them playing and being attentive!

How do you help a student who may be struggling to make friends or learn Spanish?

I first observe and try to see what the situation is and I listen. And if they feel comfortable with me and I’m the main teacher they seek when something happens, I will talk to them and ask how I can help. This method has worked for me because we need to give children a chance to express themselves and communicate without jumping in, assuming first, and ultimately deciding for them. 

What has been the most useful Corazoncitos course you have taken and why?

All the curriculum for us teachers has been beautiful and super helpful. I like the classes that develop skills in children’s social interactions and emotional/physical development. I love learning about the social side and learning how I can get involved. 

Another set of classes that I really enjoy is learning about how to teach children to respect each other and care for others! That is such a valuable and important skill and it’s amazing that we are teaching this now to our children. 

What have you learned from your students?

I have learned so much such as how to be a kid at heart and understand different personalities. I teach 16 children and each of them is different and responds differently so I have been able to see many different personalities which really intrigues me!

What is your favorite memory at Casa?

I have so many, I do not know which one to choose! When I think back, some of the people that my favorite memories have in common are Javi, Wendy, Daniella, and Cynthia. They have shown me that Casa has the right people in the right place and I have loved watching them grow! They have made me feel so comfortable and secure at Casa so I’m very thankful for them. 

What is your favorite Casa activity?

I love it when it is time to celebrate my country for the Country of the Month! I love dressing up with my culture’s traditional outfit, doing the makeup, and braiding my hair. I make sure to bring food, my flag, and bring Honduras to all the children. It makes me feel really proud to share with everyone who I am, and I feel so appreciated that I get the opportunity to do this!

What values do you hope children remember from Casa? 

Love, by far. Also, being close with people and building healthy relationships is very important to show people that they matter and that you care. 

Fun Questions:

What is the best dish you cook? Baleada, is a traditional dish from Honduras and it is a warm flour tortilla with refried beans, cheese, cream, and scrambled eggs folded in half. Very simple but very good!

What is your favorite children’s movie? I love Daddy Day Care! I love how he began taking care of children from just his home and the children loved being there instead of the rival daycare because he taught them with love and actually cared for them, just like we do at Casa!

What is your favorite book? “No Olvides a Los Niños” (Don’t Forget the Children) by Wess Stafford. It talks about why we need to prioritize the health and safety of our children. 

If you could learn any other language, what would it be? I’m still trying to learn English and speak it well!

Are you a tea or coffee drinker? I love both, it depends on the situation! Chamomile with honey is my favorite tea or Folgers gourmet for my coffee!