Meet Our Instructors: Naomi Fonseka
Naomi Fonseka
Major: Writing Seminars
Minor: Environmental Studies
Year: Class of 2026
Teaching at: Middle Alternative Program
What are some things you have learned from your students?
My students have taught me that you can find a story in anything – our names can be poems, and we can find meaning in our everyday moments, all through the power of storytelling. Sometimes we write about simple, fun moments at home or at school, and other times we write about things that are painful or hard to talk about. But they’re all stories at the end of the day, of who we are. And they’ve also reminded me to have fun! Even when working on something difficult and time consuming, if you remember why you started writing—because you love it!—it can help you see things you didn’t previously consider and work through it.
What inspired you to work with WBS?
I love to teach, and I love to write! Sometimes, things are just that simple. I really love teaching, but have only worked in math and grammar before. I am so happy to be combining my two great loves. I also love being able to be a part of the Baltimore community, especially working in education. WBS has given me a community of writers of all ages, and I look forward to our writing club every week!
What is something you really like about the school where you teach?
Something I really love about MAPs is how positive the community is. At the end of every day students get shout-outs and encouragement, and their peers and teachers are supportive of everyone’s endeavors—especially in creative writing club. Students write horror stories, poems about their families, stand-up comedy, character-sheets about evil cheese, and short stories about going to get French fries—but even more than the variety, I love that everyone’s work is celebrated, no matter what we all write about.
What are some things you love?
My dinosaur pencil case, Bert. A hot cup of coffee and a good book in the early morning. Writing with pen and paper. Calling my family until I get to see them again. Eating good food and playing card games with my friends. Bothering my professors during their office hours. A café with good bagels and lattes without much foam (but not cappuccinos!)
What is something you’re proud of?
This year my New Year’s Resolution was to try a lot of things that I’m really bad at. So I’m two months into hitting Glinda’s high notes from Wicked, learning calisthenics, doing a handstand, and talking to strangers. I’m proud of myself for continuing to try…even though I’ve yet to see many improvements.