Monica’s passion for teaching originated in experiences growing up as the youngest of nine children in a small farming community. There she witnessed the transformative power of learning in the lives of children raised within challenging economic circumstances. Her family survived poverty by picking grapes under extreme conditions in Central California. That experience fueled Monica’s conviction for teaching, one that led her to earn a Masters in Teaching degree from the University of Washington. Monica is also a National Board Certified teacher with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. She has been a classroom teacher since 2005, and prior to that, she taught in after-school Spanish programs for children. Monica believes that modern education ought to encompass more than just academics and that matters of the heart must be taken seriously and nurtured in young children. She has developed and implemented a curriculum centered on social-emotional development and mindfulness that teaches children about kindness and compassion. Monica credits her mother for making a lasting impression on her life. Her mother’s wisdom and kindness are qualities that Monica continues to emulate in her daily life. In her spare time, Monica enjoys spending time with her daughter and two dogs. Monica is thrilled to be part of the Camp Kindness Counts team. She is confident that children will find empowerment and joy through small acts of kindness that will make our world a better place. It’s by giving and receiving those acts that people’s hearts are changed.