"Teaching special education is very rewarding. Helping students learn and working with families...is a passion of mine."

Department

Special Education

Jeanette Perez is an accomplished educator with a passion for helping students reach their full potential. Jeanette’s academic journey began with an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts from HCC in 2005, followed by a BA in Psychology from the UH Hilo in 2007. She furthered her education by earning a M.A.Ed with a specialization in Special Education from the University of Phoenix in 2011. In 2016, Jeanette’s commitment to her field reached new heights as she obtained a Certificate of Advanced Study in Behavior Analysis from Cal State San Marcos, making her a valuable asset in educational settings, particularly in supporting students with extensive support needs. As a lecturer at the UH Hilo, she taught courses in Kinesiology and Exercise Sciences, including Adaptive Physical Education and Basic Motor Learning. Additionally, she served as a clinical supervisor for paraprofessionals at Bayada Behavioral Health and held leadership positions in the Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA). Her unwavering commitment to education and the community has earned her high respect, and her passion for empowering fellow educators and supporting students has had a significant impact on many lives.

Message to Teacher Candidate

Welcome to our special education family! I am thrilled to have you join our team as a special education teacher candidate, and I am confident that your presence will bring new perspectives and ideas to our learning community.

As you embark on this exciting journey with us, we want you to know that you are a valued member of our team, and your contributions will make a significant impact on the lives of our students. Your dedication to supporting and advocating for students with robust abilities is commendable, and we believe that your passion will inspire others around you.

I am eager to provide you with the guidance, resources, and encouragement you need to thrive in this rewarding profession. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of IEPs, implementing evidence-based practices, or fostering a nurturing classroom environment, we are here to help every step of the way.

Your fresh perspectives and innovative approaches will be welcomed with open arms, as we continuously strive to improve and evolve in our mission to empower all our students to reach their full potential.

Please know that you can count on me for support, mentorship, and friendship as you embark on this incredible journey in special education. I am excited to witness your growth and success, and we look forward to celebrating your accomplishments together.