"...I want to be the hope and safe place that many of my teachers were for me..."

Hometown

Koloa, Kaua'i

Department

Special Education

Related Degrees

• BEd in Special Education

Why did you choose to become a teacher, in general?

I have always dreamed of becoming a teacher but I chose to take time to raise my children first. I love children and loved school as a child. Growing up school was a safe place for me and I want to be the hope and safe place that many of my teachers were for me as a child growing up.

Why did you choose to become licensed in special education?

I chose to do special education because I have dyslexia and ADHD myself and I want to help, encourage and inspire students, and I have that understanding that will make me a better teacher. I understand firsthand the frustrations, struggles, and triumphs that come with learning differently. This personal insight will allow me to connect with my future students on a profound level, fostering a supportive and nurturing classroom environment where they feel understood and valued.

Why do you feel it is important to have diversity in the classroom?

A diverse classroom improves social skills by encouraging empathy and understanding, while also reducing prejudice through personal interactions. This variety of viewpoints leads to more engaging discussions and creative problem-solving, ultimately improving the overall learning experience. Moreover, diversity challenges students to question their own assumptions, promoting personal growth and self-awareness.