Noyce Scholar Profile
Jesus Diaz
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Algebra bilingual, Geometry, grades 9-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Master Teaching Fellow
Name of Noyce institution:
University of California Santa Cruz
Current academic or teaching status:
First year Graduate/Credential Student
School and school district:
Rolling Hills Middle School and Watsonville High School, Pajaro Valley School District
Background:
After earning my B.A. in Mathematics from University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC) in 2006, I worked for five years in UCSC’s Academic Excellence Program teaching discussion sections for introductory calculus courses. As a section leader for the program, I was in charge of developing supplemental materials to help students manage the course material and mentored students on strategies to be successful college students. I also mentored and managed student staff. I have also worked with a curriculum developing company as an editor for their math curriculum books. Working as an editor, gave me an opportunity to learn about the process of creating a curriculum and understanding the importance of pacing to help students develop a conceptual understanding.
Why do you want to teach:
I want to become a mathematics teacher for high school or junior high. I want to focus on working with English language learners, ideally in a bilingual classroom setting. I am passionate about teaching Geometry and Algebra.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
My most memorable teaching experience was working with a bilingual algebra class that used a non-traditional curriculum. The students in the class worked in small groups on tasks that focus on pattern recognition. By using manipulatives and pattern recognition, the students were able to derive mathematical concepts rather than learning them from direct instruction. The students were very responsive and were able to develop strong algebra skills and conceptual understanding of the material.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
Noyce has given me the opportunity to pursue my goal of attending graduate school to obtain my Master’s degree and teaching credential. Having the financial assistance has allowed me to focus on learning to become an effective educator.
