About Ms. Pinkerton:
I grew up in the small farming town of Reedley located in the San Joaquin Valley near Fresno, California. My parents are farmers and we grow stone fruits: peaches, plums, nectarines. I went to the University of the Pacific in Stockton where I earned my BA in English. My goal has always been to move to a big city, but somehow after college I ended up in the small farming town of Hollister, California, which is a town similar to the one I grew up in. The first time I visited Portland there was snow on the ground and it was cold, but people were still out enjoying the city and that shocked me! The next three visits were, again, during winter, but each time I was struck by the beauty of the city and the friendliness of the people. When I finally made a summer trip, I was sold on Portland and here I am!
This is my 19th year teaching and I can't believe how fast the years have flown by! I have taught intervention courses, remedial courses, and regular courses, my favorite course being senior English. I currently teach in the Beaverton School District. I work well with students because I'm positive and honest. I am able to encourage and motivate students to do their best, while being honest with them about their effort, behavior, and attitude. I wanted to become an English teacher because of my senior English teacher, Mr. Sarkisian. He had high expectations of his students and his class was the first class in which I felt smart and it boosted my academic confidence. I strive to do the same for my students by holding them to high expectations and pushing them to attain more than they thought possible.
Teaching is only a part of who I am. I'm a huge Oakland A's fan and I love motorcycles. I also enjoy yoga and reading, but my favorite hobby is traveling. My favorite trip (hands-down!) has been my trip to Paris. It's a breath-taking city with such an interesting culture. I went on a food tour that was so AH-MAZE-ING! I'm looking forward to more traveling. I still need to explore Miami and New York, as well as London and Florence (again!) --I could go on and on! I strive to lead a balanced work/school life so my family and my students get the best from me.
Now that you've read about me, go do your homework. :)