Staff Testimonials >> Vincent Ventura

Vincent Ventura
AP for Curriculum &
Instruction for Literacy (K-2)
2007-present

January 2008.

Today is Wednesday, January 23, 2008 – 8:30 a.m. I can’t believe that it’s the middle of January and today’s forecasted high is 19C. . .ahh ASFM!

It was not too long ago (one year to be exact) that I was rifling through the web pages of ASFM trying to get a sense of this new place that I would be calling “home.” Pardon my ignorance, but the only thing I knew about Monterrey was that it was a city somewhere in California, and that it was a tasty cheese, great for fondue! I didn’t even realize that there was a Monterrey in Mexico (my bad)!

I stumbled upon many testimonials that claimed “ASFM was this. . . and that ASFM was that.” To be frank with you, I was a bit apprehensive at first. Now really, can a place really be that great? Well my friends – here I am writing a testimonial!

Although my colleagues and I are from different corners of the world, different walks of life – all of us agree that it is an honor to be a part of the ASFM community.

During the Winter Holidays, I met up with up some colleagues from my former school. We were talking about school (come on, what else happens when you put a group of teachers in the same room!) One by one, they shared their stories detailing the trials and tribulations of the education field. Finally, it was my turn. I didn’t really know what to say. . . I sat there with a blank expression on my face. A friend asked me if I was all right. All I could say was “I’m great. My school is great.”

If you sincerely believe that you want to be a member of a learning community, then get ready for the time of your life! From the perspective of a Literacy Coach, I observe continual professional growth on a daily basis! ASFM has been set up in a way where you have the opportunity to grow. Workshops and in servicing are always available. A classroom teacher has administration, coaches (staff developers) and teachers for support.

Planning can be a pretty daunting process. Here at ASFM, we promote a collegial process. Team meetings are often spent “unpacking” units and detailing the “do’s” and “don’ts.” In other words, you are never alone. You will have a team of people supporting you, and lending you a hand.

So there we have it – a testimonial from yours truly! You have chosen a great place to work, live, grow, and play. Congrats! As you embark on this next chapter of your life, rest assured that the characters at ASFM eagerly wait for your arrival. Get packing – we’re excited to meet you!

Cheers,
Vincent Ventura