Why I teach

It takes a village to raise a child. It's the general statement we all hear. Well, I'm here to tell you that it's true. Teachers have the very important responsibility of shaping the lives of young, impressionable children. I remember working at a card store and my Guardian Angel appearing and handing me a number to call and we can say the rest is history. My ethical commitment to teaching children, especially those with disabilities, is that all children can learn and be treated equally in the classroom as lifelong learners. I love teaching because every day, we make a difference in someone's life, which goes far beyond knowledge. We inspire, support, mentor and get the chance to discover and share some of the best parts of ourselves as human beings. I have taught profound autism, job coaching autistic young adults to elementary/middle school resources to ACCESS ESE grades 6-12. now at Jefferson Somerset for the past four years. You give of yourself freely. You put your heart out and love each student as if they're your own. You allow them to be creative and to express their needs and wants without the possibility of being judged.
I give freely with my love, and respect is the only thing I ask for in return. My students over the years have taught me perseverance, unconditional love, respect, empathy and compassion. I have had many success stories from securing physicians to operate on my student to assist him with his legs to where he walks now; to teaching a profound student to read a book for Christmas that was dedicated to his mother and to secure scholarships so one of my students can go to college. My list can go on and on. Parents thank me – but I'm just the instrument. I believe that each student has the ability to accomplish great things. I am just the facilitator. Each student has the capacity and ability to learn whatever is given to them. I believe it is my job to support that learning so they may be the very best they can be in their lifetime. I love my job! I can't think of anything more rewarding than seeing the fruits of your labor turn into a lifetime of love.