Dena Rivera
Elementary Teacher and English Language Learner Lead
Dena Rivera is an elementary teacher and an English language learner (ELL) lead at Arizona Connections Academy. She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education from Northern Arizona University. She also received a master’s degree in teaching from Grand Canyon University. She began teaching in 1991 and began working at Arizona Connections Academy in 2013. Ms. Rivera shares more about herself below:
“I have always wanted to be a teacher. As far back as I can remember I was always the helper in the class. As I got older, I was asked to help the students who were struggling with completing their assignments. That is when I knew I wanted to be a special education teacher. I always enjoyed the challenge of finding a new way of presenting a concept.
The benefit of the online setting is that all students have access to a structured curriculum that can be modified to meet their needs all day, every day. Students have access to my recorded LiveLesson sessions and supplemental materials anytime of the day.
The connection I have with my students and families is incredible. I feel so much more connected with my students and families. We are in constant contact discussing their student’s progress as well as their daily life. I am able to work with the Learning Coaches and provide suggestions on how to help their student succeed. I always tell all my families that it takes a team to be successful and that we are a team.
"The connection I have with my students and families is incredible!"
— Ms. Rivera
An education at Arizona Connections Academy helps students at all ability levels reach their educational goals. They are able to adjust their learning to meet their individual learning needs. They have access to state-of-the-art technology and current curriculum. Students are being prepared for a future that is expanding by leaps and bounds.”