Welcome to 8th Grade ELA! Hello! I, Ms Devika Bhalla, will be your 8th Grade ELA teacher this year. I look forward to get you know and learn more about you. I know this year is going to be a little different but will be full of fun, excitement and innovative learning. I'm from India, the country that occupies the greater part of South Asia and is well know for its diverse culture. (Click Incredible India! which is a link to know more about my country. Incredible India !) I'm a keen learner and have an urge to learn more. I love exploring places and want to experience something unfamiliar and leave with new skills and knowledge. Apart from that, I am always on a quest to meet new people and learn about their language and culture. I believe that education is a weapon to transform the world. Regarding my academic skills I have done my masters from University of West London, United Kingdom and completed my Bachelors of Education from University of Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi, India, specializing in English Language, and Bachelors of Commerce from Delhi University, Delhi, India. I have taught in the Elementary grade , middle school as well as in high school for seventeen years. I have also worked as an Activity Coordinator and have been appreciated for organizing major events like Annual Sports and Annual Award Ceremonies. Here is some more personal information about me. My family is really important to me. I am married I have two kids. Elder son, is of 18 years and my younger son, is 13 years old. I am very religious person. Believes in God and cannot harm anyone. Coffee keeps me energized. I'm chocolate lover too. I'm shopping spree . The saddest part is my entire family is in India and I live here with my younger son. I look forward to build a strong family with my scholars. My faith: “Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow.” Helen Keller My Strength: My family and my friends. You can reach out to me at 5203306301 or email me at [email protected] for any concern. I will be more than happy to help and cooperate. Devika Bhalla English Language Arts Teacher Booth Fickett Math's Science Magnet School