Cristina Duarte

Hello. My name is Cristina M. Duarte. I am a mother of two children one girl 12 years old who is currently attending St Peter’s in the 7th grade and one boy 5 years old who is also attending St. Peter’s and trying to figure out how to get into everything. I have been married for about 15 years. I love animals and if I could afford it I would have many more animals. My  daughter is also currently studying Dressage and has worked very hard to be where she’s at. Most parents would probably say horses are dangerous but I believe if someone is passionate about something then you need to let go and let them fly. So if I am not at work, or caring for my animals, or chasing a four year old I am probably at the barn making sure my daughter is safe. I began leaning towards an education dealing with children when I began working for Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital as a Child Life Assistant. I had a wonderful director who guided me into a direction that I am so grateful for. From there I began  attending San Antonio College to seek a degree in Child Development. While I was seeking my degree I had the opportunity to work for USAA Child Development Center but this was only for a short period. I then graduated from San Antonio College with an Associates in Child Development. After a great  deal of rest I decided to go back to work, I then began working for the Children’s Shelter of San Antonio. The department I worked for cared for the infants and toddlers of parents who  attended Brackenridge High school. In this department I was the Lead Teacher for the toddler class and from time to time I would take over for the director. Working for the Children’s Shelter  broadened my experience and opened my eyes. Once again I had two wonderful directors who encouraged my education. At this time I began working on my Bachelors Degree at the University of the Incarnate Word. Once I received my Bachelors I began applying for teaching positions and here I am at St. Peter’s.  I am currently working on my Masters degree and I will be graduating this May. Keeping up with my education has turned me into the type of teacher I wish I had when I was in elementary school. When I am able to reach a child I then know I have done my job. I may not  reach every child but if I can reach a few then that’s the biggest achievement for me.