"Taking an emergency hire position is like being thrown in the water to learn how to swim, depending on what type of prior knowledge a teacher candidate takes with them into the classroom, but the experience is invaluable, in many ways."

Hometown

Kailua, HI

Department

Special Education

Related Degrees

• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate, Special Education (PBSPED)

Why did you become a teacher?

It was an answer to prayer. I had a failed business and a young family. I asked God for a new way to support them. A couple days later, I saw an article in the paper about UH paying for special education degrees in exchange for 5 years of employment. I had a week to get my application in. Turns out I was well-suited to teaching, and I’ve been in the profession ever since.

What HIDOE school(s) did you teach at?

Ben Parker Elementary and Kainalu Elementary

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

I am a pastor of a small church, which takes a lot of my free time, but I enjoy the work. My favorite activity: spending time with my four grandchildren. Other than that: reading, golfing, watching movies and sports.

How many years have you been mentoring?

This is my 11th year as a MUSE mentor. For 10 years before that I mentored UH special education teacher candidates in my classroom.

What is your favorite thing about mentoring?

I enjoy working with our excellent teacher candidates. Most have a very hard job, but they perpetually prove up to the task, and it’s very gratifying to see them and their students succeed. I also enjoy visiting schools throughout the State.

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

I think it’s a great way to start a teaching career (I did it), as long as you’re prepared for the mental challenge of working full time and being a full time student. Taking an emergency hire position is like being thrown in the water to learn how to swim, depending on what type of prior knowledge a teacher candidate takes with them into the classroom, but the experience is invaluable, in many ways.