My Educational Autobiography

Some of my earliest memories in elementary school were sitting in class and

imagining having my own classroom. I would dream about the day I could
create my own bulletin boards, plan exciting lessons, and help those kids
who needed it the most. I had an abundance of wonderful teachers
throughout my education that inspired me to follow my dreams and who
gave me the tools, drive, and motivation to achieve them.
I also had great supporters at home as my mother, grandmother,
grandfather, and numerous aunts are also teachers. I guess you can say
that teaching is in my blood. Through family I learned that anything is
possible, respect is something earned, and hard work pays off in the end.
In 2001, I received my Bachelors of Science in Education (1-9) from UWPlatteville. I graduated Magna Cum Laude and was thrilled to begin my first
official teaching job. I was fortunate to find a job where I student taught, at
Cunningham Elementary, in Beloit, WI.
I spent 12 years in Beloit, all as a 3rd grade teacher. I learned an enormous
amount about education and about myself through this experience. First of
all, I love that the field of education is all about continuous learning. I am
constantly researching best practice and new pedagogical approaches or
techniques. I also embrace teaching my students this concept. I try to instill
the love of lifelong reading to each student in my classroom.

Outside of the classroom, I also volunteered for many professional duties to

learn about the educational system. I was on numerous curriculum,
standards, report card, and data committees. In 2004, I received my Masters
of Education-Development and Curriculum through UW-LaCrosse. I also took
other graduate courses to improve my pedagogy and even taught college
level courses through Cardinal Stritch University on Balanced Literacy.
Through my course work, and my 12 years in the classroom, I began to feel a
pull in the direction of students in special education. I was always a regular
education teacher who didnt want the students in special education pulled
out. I wanted to include them in the regular classroom and meet their
needs along with every other student on an individual basis. I believe that
21st century education centers on individualized learning. Yes, individualized
learning is difficult, time-consuming, and stressful, but the rewards far
exceed the frustrations.
So, after 12 years, I decided to go back to school and get my Special
Education License. I was lucky enough to get hired by the Potosi School
District as a Middle School Special Educator with an emergency license. This
provided me with a first-hand experience in which to apply my studies. I
have learned so much in the last two years through both my course work, my
students, and the staff who have worked collaboratively with me for the best
interest of the students. I have learned communication is vital in the success
of students in special education. Teaching special education has taught me
that effective communication is key, along with patience, organization, and

being positive on a daily basis. These qualities are all essential to student
success, not only academically, but socially and emotionally. I am so lucky
that I can go to work every day with a smile on my face, doing what I love to
do. I cant ask for anything more than that!