Hello! My name is Val. I’m a lifelong learner and a passionate teacher. In Outschool, I teach classes on literature, history, equality, and Spanish as a Second Language. 

I’m a lover of words and literature, a passionate traveler, and a chronic over-packer. A cooking enthusiast. A Harry Potter fan and a Yotam Ottolenghi groupie.

I have completed an M.A. in Political Science, and postgraduate studies in Human Development and Gender, as well as a B.A. in Legal Studies. I am an ESL certified teacher and a member of the Women's History Network. I have taught elementary school students both online and in brick and mortar schools for over seven years and have always loved the interactions with my students. In my previous life, I was a consultant/researcher for various feminist NGOs, the United Nations, and the World Bank. 

I teach because I am a believer in the power of an educated mind. Having experienced first-hand the difference a good educator makes in a student’s life, I strive to be the best teacher I possibly can. I am an advocate for positive reinforcement and enjoyable learning environments. To keep learners engaged and motivated, I create and promote student-centered atmospheres in which pupils are encouraged to have fun and make mistakes. 

I'm an old soul. When I'm not working or reading, I'm baking, watching The Great British Baking Show, or singing off-tune to Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons.

I currently reside in NYC with my husband and our sock-puppet Lex.

I hope to see you in the classroom!