"Enjoy this time of new experiences and learning.  There will be ups and downs, learn from them and continue to move forward. You will be on a thrilling roller coaster and not a merry-go-round, so buckle in and enjoy the ride."

Department

Special Education

Why did you become a teacher?

In high school, I had the opportunity to work with the fully self-contained special education classroom.  I also volunteered at my very first Special Olympics. I learned so much and had so much fun that semester, I decided that I wanted to be a special education teacher.  

What HIDOE school(s) did you teach at?

Aliiolani, Kaewai and Likelike Elementary Schools.

Any fun facts or hidden talents? What do you like to do outside of mentoring?

Outside of mentoring, you will find me chauffeuring my daughters to school events, social events and volleyball events. When I’m not doing that, I enjoy shopping, hiking and binge watching netflix shows.  

How many years have you been mentoring?

I was a mentor for 6 years, then I took a pause to be the Post-Bacc program’s field coordinator, and now I have returned to mentoring.  Mentoring new special educators is really where my heart is right now.

What is your favorite thing about mentoring?

My favorite things about mentoring are working with new special educators. I love the enthusiasm new teachers have and I get to enjoy all of the aspects of teaching through their experiences. I get to experience numerous first days of school, first IEP meetings, first field observations. I get to see and hear the excitement of a teacher’s first Halloween or Christmas and all of the fun activities and lessons they have planned. I get the opportunity to celebrate successes and get to be part of the challenge to make things better. My favorite things about mentoring are endless!

What is your advice to those looking to become an emergency hire?

Enjoy this time of new experiences and learning.  There will be ups and downs, learn from them and continue to move forward. You will be on a thrilling roller coaster and not a merry-go-round, so buckle in and enjoy the ride.