GPS Degree: Teaching Leadership

Parisa Salehsari Lindgren

Master of Arts in Teaching Leadership

Hometown

Los Angeles, CA

My Greatest Supporters

My family!!!!!!!!!!
Samuel and Delanie Lindgren
Jean, Farhad, and Pejman Salehsari
Lisa and Jeff Lindgren

Favorite Quote

"Teaching is a work of heart!"

Scott Hughes

Master of Arts in Teaching Leadership

Hometown

Redondo Beach, CA

My Greatest Supporters

I'm eternally grateful for my incredible wife and three children and their support through a tumultuous COVID-19 year as a music teacher and graduate student. I'm also indebted to the KSOE MATL program professors - Dr. Reavis, Dr. Rambo, Dr. Lane, and Dr. Welch. Thank you for all of your inspiration and perseverance with our cohort this year!

Favorite Saint Mary's Memory

During one final presentation, my group planned a time for sharing stories related to formative school experiences, and our fellow colleagues and professors shared their own life-shaping moments from growing up. It was amazing to see the impact that teachers have on students' lives - both positive and negative - as well as the ways that individuals grow from those experiences.

My Next Chapter

Rather than looking at opportunities in the public school system being either in a teaching versus administrative role, the MATL program has shown me what it means to be a true "teacher leader." As the only music teacher for the elementary grades in my district, I am now working to position myself as an educational leader that can measurably impact student learning and experiences.

Favorite Quote

“Until we are all free, we are none of us free. ”

— Emma Lazarus

Rion Larson

Master of Arts in Teaching Leadership

Benjamin Thomas Ley

Master of Arts in Teaching Leadership

Jil V. Assefa

Master of Arts in Teaching Leadership

Hometown

San Ramon, CA

My Greatest Supporters

My greatest supporters are my husband and sons. Thank you for stepping in and taking over the many tasks that I set aside in order to be able to accomplish this. I wouldn't have been able to do it without you. I would also like to acknowledge my mom and dad, who have always believed in me and supported me in all I do.

Favorite Saint Mary's Memory

I will never forget our small cohort who supported each other through this crazy year of zoom video conference classes. Who knew we could become so close to people that we have never met in real life? We shared many laughs, a few cries, and a lot of strategies.

My Next Chapter

Up next for me is a break! I hope to make up for lost time with my family. After a relaxing summer, I look forward to being in my classroom making a difference in the lives of my students.