Yuko Beutler
Waipahu Intermediate School (2013-2014)
"Becoming a part of ethno allowed me to connect with others who shared their light, knowledge, and passion, which helped rekindle my own light. Together we are a part of a vast network that lights the sky."
Hometown
Sterling Heights, Michigan
Department
Curriculum Studies
Related Degrees
- Ethnomathematics PD
Where do you work?
I work at Waipahu Intermediate School. I am a special education teacher in a medically fragile fully self-contained classroom.
How has the Ethnomathematics program impacted or benefitted your career path?
Ethnomathematics helped me build connections with passionate individuals who I still keep in contact with today. I now know who to reach out to when I need more insights, ideas, and strategies for the classroom.
What does ethnomathematics mean to you?
Each ethno participant is like a star and they vary in intensity. Prior to joining the ethno family, my intensity was low, I had lost my passion for teaching, I was ready to quit. Becoming a part of ethno allowed me to connect with others who shared their light, knowledge, and passion, which helped rekindle my own light. Together we are a part of a vast network that lights the sky.
Is there anyone in particular who inspired you to pursue teaching as a career?
My six grade teacher, Mr. Cox. He was not just a teacher, but he was someone I could talk with long after I left his school. I remained in contact with him until he retired and I moved to Hawaii, 12 years ago. Mr. Cox would come to my high school sports events to cheer me on even when I was the worst player on the team. The joy I had when he would come watch our games made me want to be that person for someone else.
How did you become interested in the field of education?
My interest in the field of education came while working with people with disabilities of all ages through therapeutic recreation. While working in that field I gained interest in finding ways to teach each individual who struggled in daily tasks.
What are your future visions and goals?
My future visions are to continue to work in this profession as a special educator, and to create new ways to teach individuals to fit their needs and learning styles.