Originally from Lithuania, Ieva has been on both sides of the table – as an English learner and now as the teacher of multilingual students.
She started learning English in 5th grade, and it quickly became one of her favorite subjects. Then, at 15, she won a national English language competition and 6th months of living and studying in the United States, which was a pivotal moment shaping the entire course of her life.
From a tiny Baltic State recovering from Soviet oppression right to a developed Western country – the culture shock was indescribable and the learning experience priceless.
She has since gotten her BA in English and Literature and a Master’s in Teaching English as a Foreign Language, and has been the advocate of EL students and the guide for teachers of all multilingual learners for over 15 years.
Still, every time a new multilingual learner enters the school, Ieva always remembers the feeling she had when she was 16 and and in the U.S.A. – totally overwhelmed but deep down knowing that she can do it, only without a clue how – and the hope that the teachers will be there to help her navigate.
That’s why she is so passionate about teaching English learners and helping all teachers realize that they, too, can work magic and unlock unlimited potential in their students with the right strategies and tools.
Ieva has had the experience of being on both sides of the table (classroom, if you will) – as an EFL/EL student and now an EL teacher. She has tremendous empathy for and connection with her students because she knows exactly what they are going through