Erin Funera

1. What is your educational background and what positions have you held?

I started attending SRU in the fall of 2011. I majored in Special Education and Early Childhood Education and graduated in May 2015. While completing my undergraduate degree I worked as a Habilitative Aide for the ARC of Mercer County where I helped individuals with Cognitive Disabilities gain skills to live independently. I was a member of Alpha Xi Delta, whose philanthropy is Autism Speaks. I had the honor of holding the position of Philanthropy Chair for one year. I assisted in organizing campus events and fundraisers to support Autism Speaks. In August of 2015, I began working as a Graduate Assistant in the Undergraduate Admissions Office and substitute teaching at local schools two days per week. I then received my Masters Degree in with an Autism Emphasis in January 2017. I held a short term position as a Learning Support Teacher where I worked with students in 6th-8th grade. My first full-time position was working at a Therapeutic Day school as an Emotional Support Teacher. I then followed a long time dream of moving to Colorado where I was hired as a K-3 Mild/Moderate Needs Teacher. For three years, I worked with students who have Specific Learning Disabilities, Autism, Other Health Impairments and Emotional Disabilities. I have recently accepted a position at Children’s Hospital Colorado where I will be working as a Learning Specialist conducting learning evaluations for children with learning disabilities and providing therapy. 

2. What initially peaked your interest in pursuing a degree in education?

As a child I never knew what I wanted to do when I grew up. When I was a sophomore in high school my majorette advisor, who was also a Special Education Teacher at my school asked if I wanted to volunteer during my study hall in the Multiple Disabilities Classroom. After the first week I knew exactly what I wanted do and continued to volunteer for the next three years until graduation. 

3. Name an SRU faculty that had a positive influence on you and explain why.

When I think back at my time at SRU there are three facility members that come to my mind. First, is Dr. Merhaut. He was a wonderful advisor and FIRST Seminar teacher. He was always so helpful with scheduling. I also loved taking Dr. Monfore classes. She always had engaging stories to share about whatever we were learning to bring the information to life. Finally, Dr. Amodei who was my supervisor for field work and student teaching. She was always so encouraging and positive.  

4. What advice would you give to current students who are enrolled in the teacher preparation program at SRU?

My advice would be to take advantage of any opportunity you can and do not be afraid to try something new. You never know what you will end up loving.

5. What makes a great teacher?

I feel a great teacher builds relationships with their families and students and makes sure all students feel successful. A great special education teacher is able to advocate for their students needs while maintaining positive relationships with all staff members and families.