I am a dedicated and passionate educator currently pursuing my Master’s in Education and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential at Claremont Graduate University. My journey into teaching was inspired by my own children and my early experiences supporting their learning at home, along with volunteering in my daughter’s classroom. These moments sparked a deep passion for helping young learners grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

I bring several years of experience in early childhood education, including working as a preschool teacher aide, where I supported foundational skill development, classroom routines, and nurturing environments for young children. Currently, I am student teaching in a kindergarten classroom within a diverse, multilingual community, where I continue to develop my instructional practices and commitment to culturally responsive teaching.

As an educator, I strive to create a warm, inclusive, and engaging classroom where all students feel seen, valued, and capable. My goal is to support each child’s unique strengths while fostering a love for learning, building confidence, and promoting equity in education. I am especially passionate about creating aesthetically inviting classrooms that reflect my students’ identities and experiences.

Outside of the classroom, I am a dedicated mother of two who values family, culture, and community. My background and lived experiences continue to shape my empathetic, student-centered approach to teaching. I enjoy creating meaningful experiences for my children and family, which reflects my passion for building engaging and supportive environments both at home and in the classroom. I am committed to growing as an educator and making a meaningful impact in the lives of my students and their families.

Natalia Zimmerman

My Why

why I do what I do

My journey into teaching began with my children. Supporting their learning at home and witnessing their growth sparked a deep passion for education and the impact a supportive teacher can have on a child’s life. Volunteering in my daughter’s classroom further opened my eyes to the importance of creating a space where students feel seen, valued, and encouraged to succeed.

My son, Nathan, who has cerebral palsy, has deeply influenced my perspective as an educator. Through supporting him and learning from his experiences, I have gained a deeper understanding of the diverse ways children learn and develop. Observing and engaging with services such as occupational therapy has helped me recognize the importance of supporting students’ fine and gross motor skills, independence, and overall development. This experience has strengthened my ability to approach teaching with patience, intentionality, and a commitment to meeting each child’s unique needs.

I have also been inspired by a mentor in my life, a high school English teacher who consistently showed up for her students, advocated for them, and believed in their potential. Although she was not my teacher, she became a meaningful influence in my life and demonstrated the power of building strong relationships and standing up for students. Her example, similar to educators like Erin Gruwell, reinforced for me the importance of being a teacher who not only educates, but also empowers and uplifts every student.

These experiences inspired me to pursue a career in education, where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young learners. I am driven by the belief that every child deserves a classroom that nurtures both their academic potential and emotional well-being. I strive to create an environment where students feel safe to take risks, build confidence, and develop a love for learning.

My “why” is rooted in my desire to support and empower students—just as I have done for my own children—by creating a classroom where every child feels capable, supported, and inspired to grow.

A little about me...

My Why

why I do what I do

“Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them.”

— Rita Pierson