Language Learning Disability (LLD) Special Education Teacher 

Factors that influenced me to choose my profession as a special education teacher were knowing that our future students needed a kind, caring, and loving teacher and I was going to be just that. I attended public schools during my own school years and know what it is the students are seeking. Most children just need a positive role model and adult figure that will show them respect, love, and care and teach them that learning can be fun and enjoyable. I am capable and experienced working with students who are struggling academically, interpersonally, medically, and socially and possess the classroom management skills to provide these students with the necessary tools, skills, and resources to succeed and possibly go on to college, trade school, or even become their own entrepreneur. I have the love and passion to help students better themselves academically, socially, and interpersonally with the help and support of parents, colleagues, and administration. I grew up in the urban areas of Pittsburgh, experienced teaching in the urban areas of New Jersey over the last 19 years and have found that urban students can learn and will learn if the teacher takes the time to be creative when planning and delivering lessons. With creative lessons, discipline, and incentives/rewards students want to do better and become better people as individuals while gaining a sense of respect for themselves and others.

An unknown author once said, “A teacher plants the seeds of knowledge, sprinkles them with love and patiently nurtures their growth to produce tomorrow’s dreams.” More often than not, our roles as educators can be likened to that of gardeners in that our students are seeds, and it is our role to nourish those seeds so they can grow and flourish. It is our job to look at each individual seed and provide it with the highest quality of learning experiences. To do this, we must create an environment for teaching and learning where students are encouraged and empowered to grow, develop, and reach their maximum potential. We further support this by providing learning experiences that are relevant, practical, and motivating. We must also encompass each individual students’ talents, interests, and unique abilities. Once you create a learning environment such as this, you can be confident that you have equipped your student with the tools they need to live a lifetime in full bloom.

Personal Assistant

Nelson Mandela once said, "History will judge us by the difference we make in the everyday lives of children." I strive to live by this quote daily. As I reflect on my childhood there were many individuals who impacted my life tremendously. These wonderful people consisted of family, church members, friends, neighbors, teachers, and mentors who changed the trajectory of my life. This village of people nurtured, poured into, believed, and loved me. They helped bring out things in me that I did not see in myself. They helped mold me into the person I am today, and I am so grateful for each one of them. They truly made a difference in my life and influenced my decision to work in the field of education. I am dedicated to helping others and I have a deep compassion for working with children. I have been told on many occasions that I have a gift. Children have always been drawn to me. I have had the pleasure of working with children of various ages, backgrounds, and in various settings. I was a substitute teacher at Elizabeth Public Schools for 5 years and then I became an Elizabeth Public School team member in January 2020. I am currently a personal assistant. All I want to do is make a difference and allow my light to shine, no matter what I do in life.

My school responsibilities include providing one to one assistance to students with special needs in the autism program at School 21. I collaborate and work alongside the classroom teacher and other support professionals. I ensure that students are in a safe environment. I strive to foster a positive, nurturing and trusting relationship with both students and their parents.