Dr. McDonald

About Dr. McD

Learning/Resource Specialist & Vice Principal

Courses Taught:

Gr. 1-8 Resource Program

Gr. 8 - Advanced Literature

Education: EdD, MEd., MA

Universities Attended:

USF - Ed.D in Ed. Leadership

SFSU - MEd. in Literacy & CLAD

NYU - MA in Ed. Technology

Minor: Special Education

Credentials: Administrative & Multiple Subject, CLAD & Tech

Professional Memberships:

Council for Exceptional Children

International Dyslexia Assoc.

Natl Catholic Educators Assoc.

Orton Gillingham Academy

MY CONTACT

Email:

mcdonald@nativityschool.com

Phone: 650.325.7304 x121

Office Hours: Mon-Thur 3:00-3:30 or by appointment

MY FAVORITES

Books: anything by Mel Levine, love the Twilight Saga!

Hobbies: cooking, developing web pages & scrapbooking

Travel Desinations: NYC

An Educator’s Journey

I've been a member of the Nativity faculty since 1999. I taught the Third Grade for one year, and spent 7 fantastic years in the First Grade. I learned so much in the First Grade - it still holds a very special place in my heart. Over the years, I've been able to work with hundreds of amazing children and families, and I've witnessed such tremendous growth!

I earned my B.A. in Media Education at SFSU; my first M.A. at NYU in Education, Communication and Technology; and my second M.A. at SFSU in Language, Literacy and Culture. I have a CA multiple subject credential (K-12) and am CLAD & Technology certified. Most recently, I completed my administrative credential and am quite excited to develop my skills as an educational leader. Prior to joining the Nativity faculty, I completed my student teaching and substituted at St. Vincent de Paul in SF, taught for two years in a NYC Public High School - HSS 144 and taught computers for Grades 5-8 at the Berkeley Carroll School in Park Slope, NY.

I've lived in the Bay Area most of my life. I went to Holy Angels, Mercy SF, and I am very committed to Catholic Education. I think it was divine intervention that brought me to Nativity’s principal -Sr. Bernice - I continue to feel blessed to be part of the Nativity family!

I received my doctorate in Educational Leadership from the ICEL program at USF and completed my dissertation on learning disabilities at the primary level. My research is in special education in Catholic elementary schools and in particular, I'm interested in working with students with ADHD. I am thankful to Mrs. Trelut for giving me many opportunities to apply theory to actual practice. I know this year will be full of more chances to do the same!

Rob and I have been blessed with two daughters, Isabel & Charlie. They are full of energy and keep us on our toes. We can't wait until they become Nativity students too. Students and families, old and new, please stop by to say hello. I hope you come to know and love Nativity School as I do. It is a remarkable community and school. God bless.

~Dr. McD