Learning/Language Disabilities Teacher

There were many factors that influenced me to become a teacher such as, the ability to be creative and plan engaging learning opportunities that make learning fun for my students. In addition, I always wanted to be able to create a safe space for every student to feel welcome and safe to be themselves. The factor that stands out the most is that I had many great teachers growing up that had a profound impact on shaping the person and teacher I have become. My High School math teacher, who provided emotional and academic support when dealing with a family member's passing, went above and beyond to provide a safe place for me to express and deal with my emotions while continuing to succeed academically. Her simple words of encouragement and genuine caring and kindness helped me through a very difficult time. It showed me the power of human connection and the strong impact an educator can have on a child.

I believe every child can learn and as an educator it is my job to create an environment that optimizes positive outcomes for all students both academically and socially emotionally. I believe in a multisensory approach to learning where a variety of opportunities and choices are available for all learning styles and abilities. I believe in setting high standards; watching my students meet or exceed the expectations always puts a smile on my face. I believe it is my job to provide learning experiences that engage the students in productive conversations that allows them to voice their opinions in a judgement-free environment. I pride myself on recognizing positive attributes and strengths of each student and helping them build self-confidence which impacts their success in and out of the classroom. Each year I strive to build positive relationships with families. I strongly encourage and welcome a home school connection because I feel family is an integral part of students’ success in school. I hold dear every note, email, letter, and drawing from former and current students as I am honored to be their teacher. I am grateful for the opportunities I am afforded working for one of the most diverse school districts in New Jersey. I value and promote inclusivity and kindness. Overall, I recognize the importance of a teacher who cares which is why I make sure to build connections with each student so that they always know I am one of their biggest supporters even when they leave my class.

Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant  – Special Education

There were many factors that influenced my choice to pursue a field in education. As a young child, I knew that my calling in education was innate, as I would line up my dolls and teach them how to write the alphabet and do simple addition problems. I would often ask my teachers for old textbooks to bring home and practice being the teacher. Throughout my elementary and secondary years, several key educators and coaches have left impacting memories and values that I have carried with me until today. These individuals have helped shape the future for the students I now interact with daily as I would remember their techniques, their words, and most of all, their patience. Providing an overall positive educational experience which I had is what I now strive for with every student not only on my caseload, but in my building.

As an LDT-C and case manager on the Child Study Team, I am responsible for coordinating the development, monitoring, and evaluating the effectiveness of the IEP’s of the students assigned to my caseload each year. I foster communication between home and school as well as working closely with all faculty. Daily, you can find me out in the front of the building welcoming students off the bus, in the cafeteria during breakfast while I check in with the classroom teachers, visiting the classrooms, and ensuring that all the students’ personal and shared aides are covered for the day in the front office with administration. The door to my office is always open to settle a conflict with a student, consult with a related service provider, or listen to a concern from a teacher. As an advocate for the student to the parents and school district, as the LDT-C, I have the important role to ensure that each individual educational plan is adhered to, serviced properly, and amended as needed to ensure maximum student success.