Empowering Young Minds: Exploring Reggio Emilia & Dual Language Education with Giselle Sanchez-Santiago

Join David for an enlightening conversation with early childhood educator Giselle Sanchez-Santiago as she shares her journey from Puerto Rico to Chicago's south side to becoming an educator at Velma Thomas Early Childhood Center. Nestled in the heart of the McKinley Park neighborhood, Velma Thomas, a Reggio Emilia Inspired Preschool, becomes the canvas where Giselle paints a vivid picture of her passion for education and children.Giselle's narrative traces her experiences from Columbia College to the dynamic environment of Velma Thomas, a haven where the majority of students are children of color and dual language learners. In this episode, Giselle takes a deep dive into the Reggio Emilia approach—a philosophy that transcends a mere curriculum. It embodies a profound set of values that cherish children as capable agents of their own learning. Its fundamental aim? To spark curiosity and kindle a love for learning within the young minds it nurtures.Drawing on her expertise, Giselle offers a comprehensive look at Velma Thomas, unveiling how this innovative preschool serves its students by integrating the Reggio Emilia philosophy into its core. She sheds light on the school's unique approach to partnership with families, and its distinctive identity as a dual language school.Giselle's unwavering dedication as a passionate educator and advocate for children shines throughout this conversation. Her understanding and appreciation of an often overlooked age group in wider educational circles are both enlightening and inspiring. Join us for an engaging discussion that celebrates the spirit of curiosity, empowerment, and the richness of early childhood.For more information on Velma Thomas Early Childhood Center visit their website at http://thomas.cps.edu/. To contact Giselle directly you can reach her at [email protected] us a text with your thoughts or ideas, and follow and subscribe to The Teacher’s Forum so you don’t miss future episodes.Join the Conversation:[email protected]@theteachersforum.bsky.socialX (formerly Twitter) @theforum1993Please subscribe, share and leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Help us amplify the voices and issues of K-12 educators all over the world.