My name is Valerie Garcia, and I am so excited be the 5th grade ELAR teacher this year at Smith STEM Academy! I have been teaching at Smith for 3 years in 5th grade, in Dual Language Program. I live in Victoria with my fiancé, my daughter that's going to fifth grade, and our dog named Chip. I love reading/writing, going camping, and baking. I have my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Houston - Victoria. I am in the Texas Teachers alternative certification program. I am in my 2nd year of my Master of Education program - Counseling program at University of Houston - Victoria as well! I am looking forward to a GREAT year!