Teacher Tuesday Week 16: Tracee Cotto - Founding 2nd Grade Lead at ChangeMakers Academy!

Meet Tracee Cotto, our Founding 2nd Grade Level Lead and ELA Teacher at Caliber ChangeMakers Academy. Tracee is the master of our station rotation model, guided reading, and differentiated groups. She is a leader on campus and loved by all students and staff! 

Words from Tracee's co-worker at ChangeMakers: "Tracee is such an integral part of the team. I feel so fortunate to work with her! Whether it's sharing resources, giving advice, or just simply lending a listening ear, she's always there to support me and the other teachers. She has so many great ideas to help our students grow and succeed. They are lucky to have her, and so are we! "

All About Tracee: 
​Education has always been a passion of mine. Growing up in an unstable household, I found school to be my foundation and support system. I knew I could wake up in the morning and see the same faces at school, which comforted me. It provided me with the stability I needed growing up. My teachers were my world and I wanted to provide the same type of love and support to children one day. During my high school years, I realized how our educational system was dysfunctional and I wanted to become involved to help provide equitable education for all children. I truly believe that a zip code (or zone area) has no correlation to a student's success in life. This led to my involvement as a corps member in Teach For America. As a corps member, I taught both 2nd and 3rd grade in Newark, NJ. Once I finished my commitment with Teach For America, I decided to follow my passions and move to California--which brought me to Caliber. I have loved every second at Caliber. My students are incredible and I truly love teaching and growing alongside them! 

A recent interview with Tracee: 

What is your favorite thing about teaching 2nd grade at CMA? 
My favorite thing about teaching 2nd grade at CMA has been having the opportunity to see my students grow. Their joy and excitement for learning is the most rewarding experience! 

What was your favorite subject growing up? 
I loved math and science. 

Did you always think you were going to become a teacher? 
I knew I was going to be a teacher since I was 4 years old. Whether I was teaching my stuffed dolls, friends in the neighborhood, or my old dog, I was always a teacher! 

Favorite candy bar or sweet treat?
I LOVE CHOCOLATE! 

If you could go on a dream vacation, what would you do + where would you go? 
I really love French Polynesia. I would like to go and explore that area in addition to Croatia. 

What is your favorite thing about the Bay Area (or specifically about Vallejo!)? 
I love the weather out here! You will never find me back East--no more snow for me :) 

Congratulations, Tracee!!