Sted-y SPED

I recently graduated from Illinois State University Learning and Behavior Specialist program. I have become extremely passionate about teaching life skills and academic life skills. I have a year of experience in teaching middle school and high school life skills. I believe that exposing students to academic content and connecting learning to real-world applications can really benefit students who are placed in a life-skills setting. Many of my materials are adapted to academic content and/or supports for students in special education classes. I also enjoy creating materials for pre-service teachers. These materials help pre-service teachers stay organized and prepare for success in the field.

In terms of today's public education, it is not necessarily easy for students to just focus on the things they enjoy. So, my purpose is to find ways for students to explore their interests and expand their knowledge through various instructional strategies and methods of differentiation, while also teaching them the necessary standards required by law. Education should prepare a student for life and citizenship, while also allowing them to find what they enjoy and explore who they are throughout their educational experience. ​My role as an educator is to offer experiences that interest and engage students. It is my goal to create an environment that is comfortable for students to express themselves in. While I do believe in sticking to the curriculum, which comes from the idealistic teaching philosophy, students should also be able to explore their interests and values. Exploring one's interests and values is what an existentially led classroom works towards. Leading discussions, introducing creative projects and allowing students to dive into the areas they enjoy most are a few ways that students can be in charge of their own learning and success. ​ I believe strongly in building a classroom environment that fits the needs of the individual student, while also allowing for students to share their own knowledge and experience with their peers. Within my classroom, I believe that modeling and teaching a growth mindset can develop a classroom full of students who want to work and share with one another. This ultimately supports students in their academic growth as well as their personal growth. I believe that students learn through high-engagement as this allows for students to problem solve, interact with peers, and make personal connections to their learning. I believe that incorporating instructional strategies and methods that are unique to learners needs can help students progress towards their personal and academic goals. ​

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I graduated from Illinois State University with degree in special education, specifically, Learning and Behavior. Prior to the program at ISU I attended Lake Erie College where I studied early childhood and special education. I plan to continue my education and obtain a masters degree in special education.

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