"I am grateful that I am able to help students access the curriculum that I teach to help those students be successful."

Department

Special Education

Related Degrees

• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate, Special Education (PBSPED) Initial License

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

I was a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and wanted to transition into a career in the DOE system. I had to make a decision between becoming a BCBA (Board Certified Behavioral Analyst) or a teacher. I decided to become a teacher because I wanted to continue working with students in the classroom setting.

Why did you choose to become licensed in special education?

I have a son who is autistic. After working with his BCBA and RBT, I decided to become a RBT during the pandemic. When I decided to work with the special education students as a career, I realized that I couldn’t be a RBT forever because it was too physically demanding. I decided to become a special education teacher because I enjoyed working with the students in the classroom setting. Since I am a parent of a special needs child, I know how much the work that is done in the classroom helps the families at home. This gives me a unique perspective when working with my students. I am grateful that I am able to help students access the curriculum that I teach to help those students be successful. It’s my small way of giving back to the school system that is helping my son.