Alegra P.

Platte
603 North Franklin Street
Mount Pleasant, MI 48858
989-400-8545
platte1ap@alma.edu

Candidate Statement

I grew up in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. As the oldest of two children, I have learned
what it means to be a role model, and what it takes to be responsible not only for
myself, but for another person. Both my parents are educators in Michigans public
schools, and their influence and insights have given me a strong sense of right and
wrong, taught me how to be a compassionate human being, and how to communicate
with others.

My decision to attend Alma College was not a difficult one. I have wanted to be a
teacher for as long as I can remember, and Alma College offers a great education
program to help me become the best teacher that I can be. When Alma College piloted
their special education program the same year I began my college journey, I knew it
was meant to be. I have learned a lot about myself and my future during my time at
Alma College. In being an educator, I hope to provide my students opportunities to face
challenges and be inspired, much like the professors at Alma College did for me.

One of the biggest influences on my life and my decision to become an elementary

special education teacher is my younger brother. His fantastic experience in our
hometowns special education program, full of so many wonderful, inspiring, and
devoted special education teachers, has inspired me to strive to be just as amazing,
and dedicated as they are. I want to make the special education world a little less
daunting, and a little more welcoming, for as many students with special needs and their
families as I can. Learning goes beyond the walls of the classroom, and I want to help
prepare my students to meet the world outside of school with open arms and smiling
faces.

In the future, I want to create a classroom environment that is the absolute best that it
can be. Education is a unique field that is always changing and evolving. As a teacher, I
will continue to learn and improve my abilities to provide my students with the best
education possible. Schools need to move forward and continue to grow by having
teachers, administrators, staff, students, and families that work together to improve the
educational lives of students. I very much look forward to becoming the best teacher
that I can be- inside and outside the classroom.