Intro Letter of Betsy Sellers

My name is Betsy Sellers and I'm originally from Des Moines, IA. I went to St.Pius X grade school and Dowling Catholic High School. I attended the University of Northern Iowa for my teaching degree. I received my MA in Special Education at SDSU. My husband is in the Marine Corps and we've been stationed in various parts of CA for almost 20 years. This is our second time in Oceanside at Camp Pendleton. We have 3 boys, 13,11 & 5. This is my 3rd year teaching 2nd grade at St. Mary, Star of the Sea School in Oceanside, and my 16th year teaching (gasp!).

My tech experience is fairly basic. I'm a die-hard PC user and already felt out of my element the first night of 422. Just this year my classroom computer was connected to a projector and I love to show my students information from the web. I do a lot of word processing but must admit to never doing a power point presentation (second gasp!). I do have a class web page where all my assignments and notices are posted and my parents appreciate it. I create a lot of worksheets, lesson plans and extension activities using my computer. And of course I use my PC to create our annual "Christmas Letter"!

I chose CSUSM because I needed three classes (422 being one of the three) to renew my teaching credential which expired due to unforeseen circumstances which I can write a book on at a later date. CSUSM offered the classes I need, is convenient, and was recommended to me by several people. I wasn't even aware of the Mission Statement until I took my first class, however I was struck by the phrase "life-long learner". I think it is so important for educators to continue to improve themselves and stay up to date on the latest teaching techniques for the betterment of their students. As a teacher with a Special Education background I firmly believe in "educational equity" and "diversity" and strive to create a learning environment where students of all backgrounds and abilities can succeed.