Special Education is more than my job, it is my PASSION!

Who am I?

I am a wife and mother of two highly energetic elementary aged sons, as well as stepmother to a 20 year old who is finishing up his sophomore year at Purdue University.  My husband and I have been happily married since 2008.  I love to read, sing, and, being a true soccer mom, my 11 year old's select soccer schedule keeps me pretty busy. I have always been enthusiastic about Special Education. I chose my career path in 7th grade after reading the book Somebody Else's Kids by Torey Hayden......and I've never looked back!

What are my qualifications?

I graduated from TCU in 2002 with my BSE in Special Education. I taught PPCD in Keller ISD for 6 years and LIFE Skills in Garland ISD for 2 years. In 2010, I decided to stay home and raise my family.  Though I am not currently teaching, I have kept my teaching certification current. Since leaving the classroom, I have completed continuing education courses in Applied Behavioral Analysis, various areas in special education, as well as completing the Master IEP Coach® courses taught by Catherine Whitcher. Once my sons were both in school, I also worked as a Registered Behavior Technician at a local Autism/ABA clinic for 2 years (although my RBT certification has since expired).  

Why am I here? 

Truthfully, I'm here because I have several close friends trying to navigate the special education process as their children are being diagnosed. They have questions, they feel overwhelmed, and I can see that they need someone on their side to help them be able to advocate for their children. Helping them has made me realize that there is a real need out there. I am so devoted to special education, inclusion, and seeing kids succeed, I thought, "Why not use my passion and experiences to help others?"  My personal sons both have been diagnosed with ADHD and Anxiety disorders, so I am familiar with the 504 process from the parent side. My youngest son was born with a swallowing disorder and I learned a great deal about advocating for my child from that experience. 

 I know the special education process can be intimidating. It truly doesn't need to be!  I was a part of so many successful and collaborative ARD meetings as a teacher. You, your child, the teacher, the therapists, and the administrators are all on a TEAM to help your child be as successful as he/she can be. I want to help you understand the process and find the words YOU need to help your child.