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Philosophy of Teaching
My teaching philosophy is rooted in the conviction that every student is capable, valuable, and meant to thrive in the real world. As a high school teacher for students with severe disabilities, I am passionate about preparing my students for meaningful, self-directed adult lives through authentic, hands-on experiences that extend far beyond the classroom walls.
Whether we are budgeting and cooking by comparing grocery prices, volunteering at local businesses, navigating the city bus, or building job skills in community settings, my classroom is driven by purpose, active engagement, and real-world learning. I intentionally design inclusive experiences where every student participates meaningfully (using ASL, Spanish, AAC devices, peer collaboration, and leveraging student strengths) so that each learner feels seen, empowered, and capable. Through strong partnerships with families, businesses, and IEP teams, I create opportunities that build confidence, independence, and belonging.
At the heart of my work is my commitment to inclusion, not simply as a placement, but as a mindset and a mission. I believe we have the incredible responsibility and privilege to shape a world that sees individuals with disabilities not as limited, but as essential, capable, and powerful members of our communities. Don’t just believe there is good in the world, BE the good in the world!
What is your message to fellow educators?
At the heart of all this work is a simple but powerful message: inclusion matters.
As educators, we have the opportunity (and responsibility), to lift one another up, to celebrate the successes of those around us, no matter their abilities or how small the win may seem. We can choose to be a part of the change in how society sees people with disabilities, not as limited, but as capable, valuable, and essential members of our communities. This message extends beyond disability and beyond our classrooms. It’s a call to challenge the unfair perceptions held about any group, and to create a culture (in our schools and in our personal lives), where every person is seen, respected and supported.
We also have the chance to be role models and mentors, inspiring new generations in the field. I’m here because of two mentors who shaped me deeply (Lori Kopasz, who I student taught under, and Joanne Hampton, my coordinator when I returned to teaching). Their wisdom helped me refine my philosophy and practice, and their impact now reaches students they’ve never even met. You can be that kind of influence for your students, their families, a colleague, a community member or even a stranger on the bus. Inclusion, teaching and mentorship all ripple outward. Don’t just believe there is good in the world, BE the good in the world!
