I valued my teachers growing up, but I always knew the passion to be a teacher was always there when I used to line up and teach my beanie babies. I had my own grade books and stickers. But the passion to teach special education came when I spent volunteer hours at Special Olympics and my heart felt so overwhelmed with the special connections I made with those students and I knew it was my calling!

3 years ago, I had a student on my caseload who I had heard was very difficult, eloped, was aggressive, limited socialization, & instead of being nervous or dreading it, I took it as a challenge to become a better teacher & to give this child a real shot at being their best self. I had a lot of guidance & support, and over time, his behavior got better, his academics started to soar, & he started socializing with peers & adults. He goes to middle school next year and I’m so proud of his growth!!

I’d love to pay off some student loan debt, pay off my car, put some in savings, but honestly, I’d probably want to help my school in any way I possibly could. Our school is predicted to be torn down in 6 years, according to our district 10 year plan, and I’d do anything to help keep my thriving school alive! We scored a 99 on our state report card & our school works so hard and is precious to our community. I don’t want to see it, and all its memories, be torn down!