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1. What is your educational background and what positions
have you held? Please include the current school district and grade/s.
I earned my undergraduate degrees in Elementary Education (k-6)
and Special Education (k-12) from Slippery Rock University. I completed my postgraduate studies in
Special Education and Supervision in 2012, also at Slippery Rock University.
Starting in 2007, I was employed by the Midwestern Intermediate
Unit IV as an Itinerant Inclusion Support Teacher (including emotional support,
autistic support, and instruction in the home) in Butler, Lawrence, and Mercer
Counties. Additionally, I provided
direct instruction to incarcerated inmates at the Butler County Prison (up to
age 21) who were identified under Chapter 14 and had not yet earned their high
school diploma.
In 2012, I accepted a position at Shenango Area School District,
in Lawrence County, as their inclusion support teacher and intervention
specialist (k-12). I also served as
their transition coordinator. In 2018 my
duties at Shenango shifted to learning support (math and ELA – grades 3-4),
where I continue to serve as the department chairperson today. Go Wildcats!
2. Name one SRU experience, in general or
specific to the field, that you will never forget and explain why.
Some of my best and most cherished friendships began at
SRU. Although we may not all live close
by, we make staying connected a priority.
We plan an annual girl trip and have made a point to visit the Slippery
Rock area often. It is fun to reminisce and
see how the campus and surrounding areas have changed over the years. Bob’s Sub has not changed – it is always a
fan favorite!
3. Name an SRU faculty that had a positive
influence on you and explain why.
While I had many outstanding teachers during my years at
SRU, Mrs. Rebecca Badgett made the most positive impact on me as an educator; pre-service
and in-service. Her ability to make
connections with others (faculty and students) is what made her classes so
engaging and memorable. She naturally fostered
a community that supported growth, exploration, and meaningful discussions. I especially loved how she would take current
research/best practices out into the field and report back to her students
about what worked, what did not work, and why.
I admire her dedication to the field.
4. What initially piqued your interest in pursuing a
degree in education?
Like many teachers, I knew from a young age that I wanted
to be a teacher. My love of learning
came from the many positive role models throughout my time as a student. Having an uncle with special needs is what
helped lead me to specialize in special education.
5. What do you love most about teaching?
I love building relationships with my students knowing that
I have the opportunity to help make positive differences in their lives.
6. What makes a great teacher?
Great teachers inspire others to learn and give them the
tools to help them succeed.
