Philosophy


 * Students enrolled in special education services today are depending on technology integration in the curriculum to better help their everyday needs. The role of the special education teacher is to assist and guide the student with modifications as needed, to gain a free and appropriate education. Today, more than ever, teachers are depending on the assistance of technology to help their students. Starting off with small, inexpensive low-tech devices such as larger scissors, pencil grips and over sized mice, will help a student with special needs. It is the educators responsibility to identify and locate these needed items. Funding for assistive technology is available if saught in the right place. Furthermore, high-tech assistive technology is upgraded and improving everyday. Smart boards, communication boards and mobile devices are all helping students with disabilities. There are communication devices that can help people make requests, get dressed, check email and cook a meal. Using all of these assistive devices will enable a person not only in the school setting, but outside school, at work and at home. The parents of special needs children must be actively participating in the role of the assistive devices to help understand their function and usage. While the parent becomes familiar with the devices, him/her may show their child how and where to use it in public. **


 * I have worked among children with disabilities in a classroom setting since I started at UCF in spring 2008. I know there is so much value and respect to be gained as a teacher. As a special educator, I plan on giving my students the motivation and coaching that every student deserves with the availability of technology. Special educators require patience, creativity and determination. I have gained these qualities from family and community service opportunities. I know when I am hired as a teacher; there are children depending on me everyday. Young students need not only somebody to stand in front of the class but an important person who is a role model and relatable. The impact I expect to have as a teacher is to be an even bigger impact to my students. I look forward to counseling my students and creating a welcome and safe environment with technology in my classroom. **