Pre-K Disabilities Teacher

For many individuals, the decision to pursue a profession in teaching is influenced by a combination of internal and external factors. For me it seemed that it was my destiny. My chosen path always would be working with children. Since I was a young child, I was always interested in education, especially the role of the teacher. I remember playing ‘teacher’ and ‘school’ with my cousins. As soon as I was old enough, I would babysit, then I became a camp counselor for many years, while in college I worked at a daycare, and now I am a full-time special education teacher serving our vulnerable and challenging autistic preschool children. My greatest influences were some of the teachers I had as I grew up. I have such fond memories of my kindergarten teacher Ms. Rhode. She was so enthusiastic, warm, loving, and made learning fun. I remember thinking I wanted to be a teacher just like her because she made me feel loved and acknowledged. She even took time from her personal life to see me perform in my first dance recital. I was in awe that she would do this for me. However, it was my fifth-grade teacher, Ms. Uchrin that solidified my career path. I was struggling in school and wanted so badly to get all A’s and make the honor roll. I had expressed this goal to Ms. Uchrin and she told me it was possible. I remember she would encourage me and challenge me to strive towards achieving my full potential. With her assistance and my dedication, I achieved my goal of making the honor roll. It was at that moment I decided I was going to become a teacher dedicated to helping children overcome their struggles and reach their individual potential. I will forever be grateful to those who have supported and inspired me to choose a career in education.

Teaching is a noble profession that requires a combination of skills and beliefs. It takes passion, dedication, optimism, and the genuine desire to help students succeed. These characteristics are the foundation that guide me every day in my teaching career. I believe it is my responsibility to provide the best educational opportunities for the students of today and tomorrow. As a Pre-K Special Education Teacher, I am flexible in meeting the needs of my students and set challenging, but attainable goals. My teaching strategies and techniques allow each student to understand that I believe in them and expect them to do their best every day. I have found in my years of teaching that students only learn as much as their teacher expects of them. Teachers who set high expectations will receive higher achievement from their students. My ability to set these expectations coupled with my interpersonal and nurturing skills help me to relate well with children. My job is challenging, but it is my self-determination and perseverance that allows me to help my students succeed. Overall, I am committed and teach from the heart, which allows me to help my students reach their full potential.

School Nurse

What factors influenced my decision to enter the school nursing profession? One of the factors that inspired my nursing career was my mother. She became a nurse after leaving her birthplace in Ireland. Her courage and kindness to others inspired my desire to help others. I did not “always” know I wanted to be a nurse. However, I am so happy I am a nurse! Schools provide a unique environment to collaborate with a team and help children. The school nurse position provides the opportunity to make quick decisions and utilize medical skills. My school nurse position has become more complex and demanding over the years. The complexity of a school system career guarantees each day is different, interesting, and rewarding. Working daily with children, especially preschool age children, is a joy. This opportunity to witness and assist children to be happy and healthy is a major factor in my job satisfaction. The joy I find working with students and parents has been my inspiration to persevere and continue challenging myself in the Elizabeth Public School environment. Lastly, the pleasure of meeting many wonderful nurses, teachers, teacher assistants, and parents has driven me to continue my school nursing journey. My life has been enhanced by the lessons I’ve learned from children and peers. My hope is that I have provided support and comfort to children and families. Small gestures and a sense of humor have been my guide.

My worksite responsibility is primarily to provide medical care for students and staff on a daily basis. The nurse provides medical care for allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and seizure care as needed. The gamut of medical care, in a school setting, encompasses both minor and major medical issues. Daily medical care is a small part of a nurse’s responsibilities. The school nurse interacts with all team members to improve the well-being of the entire school community. Social, emotional, and behavioral issues are present in a nurse’s daily life. In addition, paperwork, reports, confidentiality, and clear communications are essential to maintain an effective school nurse office. In summary, the nurse wears many hats to support student wellness, growth, and success. The school nurse is responsible for hearing, vision, and blood pressure screenings in school. Screenings which are abnormal (Failed hearing/vision, high blood pressure) require notifications to parents and guardians. The students are then followed by the nurse to ensure any health deficits are corrected. The nurse plays a vital role in keeping the Elizabeth community safe by enforcing vaccination requirements. Nursing responsibilities are absolutely essential and lifesaving on occasion. In conclusion, my ability to be flexible, kind, fair, and discreet are part of what makes me exceptional. Assisting new nurses and colleagues with questions and tricky situations over the years has been a rewarding experience. My hope is that I have paid forward in some small way the kindness I’ve received throughout my career from the fabulous Elizabeth school nurses.