A Bit About Me

My name is Ekaterina Shelton (I go by Kate). I am originally from Minsk, Belarus, and immigrated to the United States in 2010 after completing my bachelor's degree in Linguistics and Foreign Languages. I am a native Russian speaker who has been exposed to English, German, Spanish and Arabic Languages through their secondary education. I have completed an internship in Cairo, Egypt, worked as a freelance interpreter with United Nations, and trained interpreters in Hampton Roads through a refugee resettlement program. 
Just like many of you, when I moved to a brand-new country, I had to rediscover myself. I have worked in several industries while always staying connected to tutoring, interpreting, translating, and teaching foreign languages. I completed a master's degree in Education through Regent University, and I am currently working as an educator with Williamsburg James City County Schools.
I live in Williamsburg with my daughter Victoria, and our Sphynx cat Maya. I enjoy reading non-fiction books, listening to educational podcasts, going to the beach, and gardening in my free time.
My all-time favorite quote about teaching is "Train people well enough so they can leave. Treat them well enough, so they do not want to." by Sir Richard Branson. This quote fits well in so many professional and academic environments, not only in public schools. Every person deserves to be treated respectfully, and every educator's purpose should include sharing information freely, inspiring, and listening. Fun facts about me: I once ate a pigeon, and our whole family drinks raw milk every day!
I cannot wait to meet you and get to know each of you better!