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20 June 2014

Good teaching techniques: 'Students at all levels are capable of learning'

As a teacher, Sue Andres-Brown has learned one abiding lesson: “Kids are endlessly fascinating and always energizing to work with.”
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Student Profile:
Sue Andres-Brown, Professional Certificate in Gifted and Talented Education

With that attitude, it’s no wonder that Andres-Brown, with six years as a high school teacher to her credit, looks forward to her next challenge: Founding a charter middle school in Southeast Los Angeles through a fellowship with Building Excellent Schools.

“Wherever you teach, there are unexpected challenges and rewards,” she said. “But good teaching techniques are always effective, no matter where you teach.”

In June, Andres-Brown earned a MBA at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management, augmenting her political science and English degree from the University of Florida.

In 2009, she earned a Professional Certificate in Gifted and Talented Education from UC San Diego Extension.

“All kids, no matter how gifted or talented they happen to be, like to keep you on your toes,” she said. “I believe that given high expectations and the right support, students at all levels are capable of almost anything."
 

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Sue Andres-Brown (second from left) with her high-school students


Six years ago, Andres-Brown began her teaching career at South East High School in South Gate, a Los Angeles suburb. By the time she left to attend graduate school, she chaired the English department.

“We had many passionate, committed teachers,” she said, “but it was very hard to sustain that momentum.”

Her commitment to her students remains stronger than ever.

“A lot of times, a student’s future comes down to having a positive or negative experience while they’re still in high school,” she said. “I like the challenge of trying to make their world a better place, no matter what.”