Q: When did you decide to become a teacher? 

 

A: "I decided I wanted to be a teacher in the 2nd grade (my parents are both retired Special Education Teachers from the Farmington district)."

 

Q: Why did you choose a career in special education?  

 

A: "I decided my Senior year in high school that Special Education was my passion.  I have been around the Special Education population my entire life, I was comfortable in those surroundings, and my parents were a big influence."

 

Q: What’s the biggest challenge/reward in working with students who require special education? 

 

A: "Biggest challenge is how long it might take an individual student to understand and generalize a concept (whether it is academic or life skill).  Biggest reward is when they finally understand and generalize a concept."

 

Q: How do you meet a wide variety of needs for the students you support? Describe how you use and adapt lesson plans and materials. 

 

A: "Individualized learning...present materials the best way they understand it.  Some use visuals (pictures, symbols, actual items), verbal (text to read, read aloud), written out, hand over hand, etc....It all depends.  This is a loaded question! :)"

 

Q: How do you handle different levels of classroom behaviors? 

 

A: "It all depends on the student/individual.  Some students respond with verbal prompts, others might respond to visual prompts.  Some might require CPI trained individuals to assist them to be moved into a secluded area for safety.  It all depends....each student/individual is different and you learn very quickly what works and what doesn't work. Once you figure it out that is how you deal with them during most situations."

 

Q: What is your experience teaching with technology? 

 

A: "I've been using technology for at least 15 years or more :)"

 

Q: How has ASD personally affected/influenced your life? Do you know anybody outside of the classroom that has ASD?

 

A: "I know several individuals with Autism (family, friends, and coworkers)...everyone is different.  Teaching students with Autism has made me realize how much patience I have. It has also made my own biological children more caring and accepting individuals."

 

Q: In your opinion, how can we, as a society, move forward from preconceived, negative ideas surrounding those with ASD? 

 

A: "I think continuing to bring awareness to Autism and what it is will always help us more forward positively.  What you are doing is a perfect example!"