K-8 Center in North Miami, Florida. She has taught in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools for more than 10 years. Zulma has a Master of Science degree in Pre-k/Primary Education, a Master of Science degree in Elementary Education and an Education Specialist degree in Educational Computer Technology from Barry University. She believes that students must be allowed to learn through play with hands-on activities that give meaning and purpose to each student’s background knowledge. Zulma Van Putten is an advocate for early childhood education. She believes that best practices in teaching and learning can foster learning communities within the classroom that would enhance student achievement and allow teachers to reflect on their own teaching.