Bio:   I like math and creativity! I enjoy learning from my students; teaching should be a fun, two-way experience! Certified Teacher since 2005, Test Prep Instructor, M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction Mathematics 2016

Bio:   As a vocational rehabilitation counselor, I have worked with students with disabilities as they transition from high school into college or into the world of work. In this role I have acted as an advocate helping students to gain access to accommodations and to develop strategies for success. Over the years, I have noticed a growing trend with more students arriving at college with varying learning abilities that have not been properly addressed. Many of the students that I have worked with had not received the proper testing or remediation in their earlier education. Hence, they arrive at college or the workplace without confidence, without the proper accommodations, and without the skills needed to become successful. This experienced has shown me that early identification and remediation of learning challenges is critical, and as such, I want to become a part of the solution. Witnessing a very bright and capable visually challenged student struggle with an online biology test was heartbreaking. However, when I intervened, as a disability counselor, and the accommodations of tactile, (i.e.: Velcro shapes, and extended time to take the exam, a Smart Pen, JAWS software, a class note taker, and collaboration with her parents and the educational team were implemented), she passed her course with a B+ for the entire year. This student, like many others, was not even aware of such accommodations and neither were her parents. Early identification of the student’s visual abilities had gone unrecognized for years. As such, this student also had issues with self-confidence, anxiety, and frustration. It is my goal to become an advocate for students who go through their school years undiagnosed and unheard by equipping them with the correct testing for identification of any learning disorders. By also providing them with proper targeted interventions and strategies, they will gain the confidence they need to become successful learners throughout their lifetime. As such, I believe that pursuing my education to become a professional and licensed educational therapist will help me to make a lasting and positive impact with students who face learning challenges.