Hi, my name is Sarah McNary and I’ll be your instructor for this online class. I wanted
to take a few minutes and use this screencast to tell you a little bit about myself and
my background. I began teaching 25 years ago in a sheltered
English classroom where my students spoke nine different languages…and none of them
English. Back then we used a district mandated program to guide students through a series
of English Acquisition units – times certainly have changed and we know so much more now
about effective instructional practice that supports all kinds of student learning.
My last assignment was at La Costa Canyon High School where I taught an alternative
education program using computers as the primary mode of instruction. I have credentials in
English, Special Education, Home Economics and Multiple Subjects.
I worked with student teachers as an onsite supervisor for a Cal State San Marcos and
with new teachers as a support provider for 8 years.
I was honored to be chosen District Teacher of the Year in 2009.
I’m also an author – I’ve written three educational research books for Corwin Press.
On a more personal level, I’m a wife. That’s my husband and myself with one of the helicopters
my husband flies. I’m a mom. This is my son Alex who is in
law enforcement. And I’m a grandma - this is my daughter
Erica with her husband, Brandon, and their new baby Olivia.
In my spare time, I like to quilt; I like to play tennis; and I like to paddleboard.
But my favorite pastime is playing in our garage band – we’re not very good but
we have a great time! I’ve been teaching online for many years
now. I started as faculty with the University of Phoenix and these days I teach for the
San Diego County Office of Education as well as for the Allenwood Company in New York.
I love teaching online because of the opportunity it gives me to interact with each participant
in my classes on a personal level. The flexibility endemic in online instruction fits so well
for most busy professionals, I think you will enjoy this class as well. So let’s get started!
