Hello.
As a native San Martian, I have lived all over our beautiful country and moved back to San Marcos almost fifteen years ago for grad studies. With my MFA in Communication Design, I not only understand and relish literature, but I enjoy sharing literature's symbolism and critical thinking with my students.
Using an authentic voice and inspiring the creative process are superpowers that I awaken in my students. My goal is to be the brightest spot of my students' day and help them be the best versions of themselves.
I am a teaching consultant for the National Writing Project and daily writing is a priority for me in the classroom. Students will learn to trust the process and hopefully crave it, as well. Teaching English IV + Yearbook is highly rewarding and I truly love each of my students. [My students are my kiddos for life.]
My favorite things include hanging out with my three children and a menagerie of animals, reading, organic gardening, and creating things.
Favorite Books:
A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving
The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
The Master Butchers Singing Club by Louise Erdrich
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
The Dovekeepers by Alice Hoffman
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
All Souls Trilogy by Deborah Harkness
(The Goodreads app is a great way to discover new books and keep a booklist.)
My syllabus is found here: Houser 2022-2023 English IV syllabus
If you have a question or need to meet, please email me so I can schedule an appointment.