Since 3rd grade, I have wanted to work with neurodiverse children.

 

 I am a graduate of Clarion University with a bachelors in Special Education, Birth to 21 and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. In 2021 I added Pre-K- Grade 3 teaching credentials to my certification. Currently, I am in my 16th year as a special education teacher. I teach at St. Vincent College for the Bearcats BEST program.

 

As my education and passion has grown, I not only find myself wanting to work with children, but adults and families. It’s so important to feel connected with others no matter a person’s ability. I truly believe everyone should feel welcome and included, even if you need accommodations or adaptations to enjoy the same activities as everyone else. My hope for Inclusive Connections is to reach out to families with support to make events within our county inclusive to them and to enable them to feel heard, valued and to know they are not alone.

I have always had a passion for working with children. I grew up with an older cousin that had special needs and have been part of their community my entire life. I grew up going to the Special Olympics every year and once I was old enough to volunteer, I jumped at the opportunity! I continued to volunteer yearly until I graduated in 2005.

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About 11 years ago, I began working within elementary classrooms to assist with children of varying needs. Eventually I became an Instructional Assistant working in our Elementary Autistic Support classroom. I have a passion for inclusion and absolutely love helping little ones learn skills to navigate a world that isn't quite set up for them.

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I have continued to learn and grow along side my passion and received my Autism Certification through Purdue University last year. I am currently working on my Masters Degree in Speech Pathology and hope to continue on a path that helps everyone find their voice and communicate their needs effectively.

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Now I want to make difference not only inside of the classroom but OUT of the classroom as well. I want our community to be a safe, inclusive place for everyone who resides within it.