Joy Carreno

What is your favorite childhood book? 

While I was growing up I loved the Little House Series by Laura Ingalls Wilder.  I loved imagining Laura and Mary as they moved from the big woods to the prairie.  I felt a strong sense of family in her books.

What is your secret talent?  

 My secret talent is dancing. I love to salsa dance with my husband, Edgar.  We cannot have a get together without putting on some music and dancing on the patio.

Who was your favorite teacher in Elementary School and Why? 

My favorite teacher was Mrs. Gowl, my first grade teacher. She was like a grandma. She made me feel safe and successful. Also, she took pictures when we went on field trips, then after posting them on the bulletin board for an appropriate time, she let us choose which pictures we would like to keep.

What is your favorite thing about teaching? 

I love encouraging students to do their best.  There is a precious moment when a student realizes that they can, after that, their confidence builds and they begin to move quickly.

What is your favorite subject to teach and why?   

I have specialized in reading and writing for second language learners. I have a special place in my heart for students who are learning English as well as their home language. My husband speaks Spanish first and English second.

Why are you excited to be a part of the Willow family? 

I am excited to be a part of the Willow family. It is thrilling to become a part of a swiftly growing diverse community. I feel welcome when I come through the doors. My own family is quite international.  My stepson lives in Colombia, my stepdaughter is in Austria, and my son lived for two years in India.