Courtney Pazin grew up on the coast near Half Moon Bay, California. She completed her undergraduate degree in Modern Literary Studies at University of California, Santa Cruz. She then attended Notre Dame de Namur University in Belmont, California, where she earned a single subject teaching credential in English and a Master’s degree in Education; her thesis topic was ‘Empathy in Teachers and Students.’ She is currently attending Saint Mary’s College in Moraga, California to earn an MFA in Creative Nonfiction, and to complete a Teaching Fellowship.

 

While attending school to attain her credential, Courtney worked for a non-profit in an alternative school setting, serving K-12 and up to the college level. She coached students one-on-one by supporting their academics, executive functioning, and socio-emotional needs. Courtney has taught for four years at the high school level, and has experience teaching and building curriculum for freshman and sophomore English, ELD for newcomers, Design Thinking, College Study Skills, and Creative Writing. She uses empathy to build relationships with students, guide their learning, and foster emotional intelligence. Courtney specializes in writing and executive functioning.