The student news site of Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School

The New Dealer

The student news site of Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School

The New Dealer

The student news site of Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School

The New Dealer

Staffer of the Month- Ms. Cohen

Staffer+of+the+Month-+Ms.+Cohen

pg 5, pic 3 (800x533)The Staffer of the Month goes to Ms. Cohen! Loved by her students, Ms. Cohen is a popular face amongst the freshman students this year.  According to sophomore Ashley Velasquez, “Ms. Cohen has motivated me to do better, challenge myself, and taught me to work harder!” Ms. Cohen’s hard work throughout the year hasn’t gone unnoticed. Despite her busy schedule, Ms. Cohen managed to find some time for an interview.

 

  1. What inspired you to be a teacher?

Being a teacher means you are continuously learning. I chose to teach high school students, because I believe they are at a pivotal point in their education. It’s a good time for students to explore what they are passionate about, before choosing their future career.

 

  1. What are some of your most vivid memories from high school?

In my high school years I developed a love of languages. I remember studying English and Spanish during high school. I also enjoyed reading and understanding Shakespeare with Mr. Thielker [Ms. Cohen’s English teacher]. He also offered a film and literature elective course.  I was lucky enough to be selected for the dance team. I later won the National Championship competition.

 

  1. What would be your advice for students to excel in school?

In order to excel at school work a student should organize one’s work properly and be passionate about learning. Doing homework and being involved with extracurricular activities are just some of the qualities that make a good student. Students should try to enhance their vocabulary. Students should also take advantage of any tutoring programs. Above all, students must realize that everything one does at school counts. Therefore, they must be determined to strive for success.

  1. Which book do you enjoy teaching the most? Why?

I really enjoy teaching Mama’s Girl. It’s a memoir written by Veronica Chambers, a local Brooklyn author. I like hearing students’ reactions to the book, and I also enjoy hearing the text-to-self connections the students can make. Veronica is also an excellent role model for any freshman. Despite all her struggles, Veronica’s hard work and perseverance helps her become successful.

 

  1. Any favorite quotes?

I have many but here are some really inspiring ones!

“You’ll miss the best things if you keep your eyes shut.” – Dr. Seuss

“Everything in life is writable about if you have the outgoing guts to do it, and the imagination to improvise. The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt.” – Sylvia Plath

“Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” –T.S Elliot

 

  1. What has been your best teaching moment?

The best moments in my teaching career are when I know that I have helped to foster a love of reading and writing in a student or even inspire them in any way. Each year I also take my classes on trips. This year two of my classes gave me a beautiful thank you cards after the trip. They thanked me for taking them and giving them a day with no worries. I will keep those cards with me for eternity.

 

  1. Have you lived in any place outside of New York? If so, where did you live?

I was actually raised in New Jersey, but I moved to California to continue my education. When I was studying at University of California, Berkeley I took part in a study abroad program in Cuba. This visit later influenced me to go to Spain where I taught ESL. I taught both private students and Business in English. While staying in Europe, I also had the opportunity to travel around France.

 

Wow! You’ve certainly been to a lot of exciting places! Congratulations for being the Staffer of the Month. You are truly an inspiring teacher!

 

 

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