Ann Asaro: I have been a teacher in the La Mesa/Spring Valley School District for over 25 years. During my teaching career I have taught many grades and experienced many gifts found in the students and teachers in our district. My philosophy of education is simple: Put students first. I believe if I hold true to this philosophy, all possibilities are attainable. I believe in the power of practitioner research, using the data to improve education, and sharing findings to maximize impact on student learning.
Jan Richards: I have been a teacher for 30 years, spending most of my time in the upper elementary grades. I received my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from San Diego State University. Albert Einstein once said, “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” I resoundingly agree and work each day to challenge students’ minds and pique their natural curiosities. I acknowledge the importance of developing students who will be successful 21st Century citizens and strive to meet this need through text, technology, and tenacity.