DLI
Welcome to Quarter 1 of our Dual Language Immersion newsletter!
As we begin a new school year, we are filled with excitement and hope for all that lies ahead. Each Fall brings a fresh start, with a chance to build meaningful relationships, inspire curiosity, and nurture the growth of every student. To our teachers, thank you for the heart, dedication, and expertise you bring into your classrooms each day. To our families, thank you for your continued partnership and trust. Your support plays a vital role in your child’s success. Together, we will create a year filled with learning, connection, and achievement. We look forward to all the moments that will make this school year truly special!
Bridging worlds with words,
Julie Fernandez
Julie is originally from New York City and has been teaching for 11 years. She enjoys singing, playing guitar, reading the Bible, and spending time with loved ones. A fun fact about Julie is that she travels to different countries for mission trips!
Janna Novotony
Janna is from Glens Falls, New York, and has been teaching for eight years. She enjoys reading on her front porch and cooking for her family. A fun fact about Janna is that she and her husband share the same initials: JRN!
Sydney Gosdin
Sydney Gosdin is from Canton, Georgia, and has three years of teaching experience. She enjoys reading, photography, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Sydney speaks Spanish and has lived in Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic!
Jenny Poitevint
Jennifer Poitevint is from Suwanee, Georgia! Jennifer brings 11 years of teaching experience to the classroom. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially at the lake, and binge-watching her favorite reality TV shows. A fun fact about Jennifer: she played volleyball in college!
Lisa Rodriguez
Lisa is from Florida and brings 24 years of teaching experience. She enjoys reading, traveling, visiting the beach, and spending time with her family. On weekends, Lisa and her husband, who is a pilot, enjoy going flying together!
Elizabeth Lennen
Elizabeth Lennen is from Homestead, Florida! Elizabeth brings 22 years of teaching experience to the classroom. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, cooking, traveling, and treasure hunting at thrift stores. A fun fact about Elizabeth: she is bilingual and is teaching herself French and Italian for enrichment!
Sandra Teixeria
Sandra Teixeira is Salvadoran, born in Houston and raised in Milton, Georgia. She has 12 years of teaching experience and enjoys concerts, cooking, and cheering on her son at soccer and karate. Her newest hobby is mindful doodling! Sandra also loves technology and finding creative ways to turn lesson ideas into something new.
Mayra Alcauter
Mayra Alcauter is from Chicago and has also lived in Morelia, Mexico. She has 10 years of teaching experience and enjoys nature, being near the water, traveling, and exploring art and natural history museums. At home, she loves watching movies and playing video games with her older son. Mayra has done voice acting in Latin America and has two poodles, a mother and daughter!
Maricela Eustice
Maricela is originally from Mexico City and has been teaching for 14 years. She enjoys spending time with her family, creating engaging learning experiences, crocheting, dancing Zumba, listening to audiobooks, and rewatching her favorite shows. As an EF sponsor, she and her family have traveled to Costa Rica, Japan, and South Korea—and Peru is next!
Erin Cordes
Erin grew up in upstate New York and later lived in Massachusetts and the Bahamas, where she spent 19 years. She has been teaching for 20 years and enjoys traveling, music, art, boating, swimming, scuba diving, and spending time with her family. Erin is always ready for an adventure. She has even gone scuba diving with sharks and hang gliding!
Oscar Rodriguez
Oscar is from Santa Rosa de Cabal, Risaralda, Colombia, and has been teaching for 12 years. He enjoys strength and conditioning coaching, traveling, dancing, and connecting with others. Oscar has a passion for learning about different cultures, people, and perspectives from around the world.
The GaTAPP Ambassador program recognizes and highlights outstanding teachers who have entered the teaching profession through Non-Traditional Educator Preparation. These teachers are nominated to become GaTAPP Ambassadors by their local GaTAPP program provider.
Selection criteria for this honor are based upon positive impact on student achievement and outstanding performance in the classroom. GaTAPP providers select candidates they predict will have great impact on P-12 education throughout their careers.
THOSE SELECTED ARE GATAPP CANDIDATES OR COMPLETERS WHO:
- Are successfully completing or have completed a GaTAPP program
- Are employed in the field of Education
- Have received a high disposition rating for teaching and learning
- Demonstrate evidence of positive impact on student achievement and progress
- Have gained recognition in their schools
- Serve as leaders in their schools
- Have the recommendation of EPP Head/GaTAPP Director
DLI Students
