"I believe everyone has a strength and talent to offer, and everyone can learn and benefit from one another- students as well as teachers."

Department

Special Education

Related Degrees

• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate, Special Education (PBSPED)

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

Like most educators, I wanted a fulfilling career in education to make the most impact in young students’ lives and to have their first school experience to be a positive one.

Why did you choose to become licensed in special education?

I chose to become a licensed special education teacher because I’ve seen families get turned down by private preschools because of their child’s exceptionalities and it frustrated me because what they needed was extra support. I want to become an advocate for families and keiki who need that support, especially through the IEP process.

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

I am a firm believer in inclusion and inclusion classrooms, and I think it benefits everyone with the right “growth mindset.” I believe everyone has a strength and talent to offer, and everyone can learn and benefit from one another- students as well as teachers.