Introductions- Tell Us About Yourself!

Hello everyone! My name is Omayda Valdez Olivera. I’m currently teaching at Alfred I. duPont Middle School in Jacksonville, where I work with 6th, 7th and 8th grade English/Creative Writing and Dual Language ELA students. I graduated in 2023 with a degree in Political Science, but education quickly became my passion—I started teaching in February 2024 and I’m now working on my ESOL endorsement through this course. Outside of education, I’ve also worked in retail, food service, and even as a census enumerator and canvasser, which gave me a wide range of experiences with people from all walks of life.

On a personal note, I also work as a DJ at local events, which is a fun creative outlet. I don’t have any pets (yet!) but I do love animals. Some of my favorite movies are Fantastic Mr. Fox and Spirited Away. As for ice cream butter pecan is my go-to flavor!