My desire to work with students with special needs began as a middle school student.  I was able to volunteer in a moderate disabilities classroom as an 8th grader, then again, during my senior year as a cadet teacher.  I was able to coach these students in Special Olympics and knew this was where my heart was!

 

In May, 2002, I graduated from Indiana University South Bend with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mild Disabilities. I continued my education online at Jones International University based out of Colorado, earning my Master’s Degree in Elementary Curriculum and Design. Most recently, I earned my Special Education Director’s License through Ball State University.

 

I began my teaching career at West Noble School Corporation. I taught special education (k-4) at Ligonier Elementary for 4 years.  I then moved to Lakeland School Corporation and taught 6th grade special education for 3 years.  At that time, I was given the opportunity to become Lakeland’s Special Education Coordinator and continued in this position for the next 7 years.  In the spring of 2016, I was offered and accepted the position of County Director through Northeast Indiana Special Education Cooperative and began my new role in July 2016.

 

In 2016, I was one of 3 community members that began Special Olympics LaGrange County.  Our first event was held in May 2017.  I live in LaGrange with my husband, Mark, and two sons.