I became a teacher to change the world, one student at a time. Working with students that have different needs and showing them how capable they are gives them the confidence and skills they need to be successful. My goal as their teacher is to show them they can do difficult things! They may do them a bit differently than others, but with the right support and accommodations they can reach their own individual potential and turn their dreams into reality.

While working on my National Board Certification, I was able to show exponential growth with a student who had a physical and visual impairment. Before coming to my specialty transition program, she was not treated with respect or held to her individual potential. In one year she was able to do 80% of life skill tasks independently, begin to learn braille, and begin to walk. Showing students the accommodations that support them to be successful is the most meaningful part of my teaching career.

$25,000 would help facilitate my passion of traveling and adventure while also giving back to my classroom and community. I strive to support others in need while living my life to the fullest. I believe the key to life is leading with love, while balancing your time and effort to do what’s best, both personally and professionally.