Karen Chan – Music Director
Why did you become a music director?
“I wanted to give back to the community. I’ve been a professional violinist for many years, and so I’m going from the professional performance world to more of an educator position. I thought it was really important to share what I know with the students at this age. It’s a great age group to work with. I [also] enjoy teaching, that’s a big part of it.”
What are your goals for the school year?
“I [want] to make sure everyone is comfortable in this environment and that they can learn and feel comfortable and safe and welcomed. It’s a great, inclusive place to be and I want everyone to enjoy their time. It’s really a place to enjoy camaraderie and [make] music together with classmates.”
Gina Sunie-Lopez – School Psychologist
Why did you become a school psychologist?
“I grew up in a family of educators and after I graduated school, I went through multiple different careers here and there, and something has always brought me back to the educational world. I enjoy helping people and I enjoy providing support. I had my own experience as a student and a young learner where
those things were necessary for me occasionally, and so I decided to give the study a whirl and I’ve just been going since.”
What are you concerned about?
“I’m concerned as to whether students know what their resources are on campus and that they have a place to be connected and get the support they need, whatever that might look like. I’m always concerned as to whether or not students have and know the supports that they have available here.”
Alex Magaña – Geometry
What are you looking forward to?
“I’m looking forward to the Halloween teacher rally. I’m super hyped for that. I’m also excited to build more connections with other teachers across different departments at Aragon, because often times we’re
really far away from each other.”
How does it feel like looking at the school from the perspective of a teacher?
“I had a different experience when I was a student here at Aragon. It’s very cool to see how much teachers collaborate within teams and departments to make sure they’re giving out the best teaching practices to go out to all students. There’s a lot of behind the scenes stuff that you don’t always get to see from the perspective of a student. It’s very cool to be a part of.”
José Pérez – English
What inspired you to become an English teacher?
“I struggled in reading because I was taught in Spanish, but my secondary schools were all in English. When I was in high school, I was inspired by my honors 11th grade teacher to focus on writing. During my senior year, I went to San Jose State University to sit in master classes and listen to the type of discussions they had trying to figure out some of the complex character conflicts. I knew I wanted to be in a class to help students improve their reading skills so that they can get to have those types of discussions … You have to teach the power of words.”
What advice do you have for students?
“One: Aim to be the best, not like the rest. Two: All love is self love. Three: You should want the best for
others so that others want the best for you.”
