I was encouraged to ask questions and be a self-directed learner. Teachers were warm, empathetic, and extremely supportive.
Teaching it the "most rewarding experience ever!" declares Vanessa Ibarra. After earning her BA in Psychology and Early Childhood Education from Mount Holyoke College, Vanessa began her career at Bing Nursery School in Palo Alto. Back in 2004, her advisor, Holly Zuklie, described the eighth grade Vanessa as "a terrific role model for younger students and a wonderfully caring friend." Even as a 13-year-old, her potential as an educator was apparent. Recently, Vanessa became Lead Teacher at The Primary School in East Palo Alto. Reflecting on her time at GMS Vanessa says, "I was encouraged to ask questions and be a self-directed learner. Teachers were warm, empathetic, and extremely supportive." GMS inspired Vanessa's personal vision for teaching. She says, "I hope to establish a warm, caring, and supportive environment for children to question, hypothesize, explore, and inquire about the fascinating and innovative world they live in."