Language Learning Disability- Social Studies Teacher

There were many factors that led me to a path in education. I come from a family of educators. My grandfather was a New York City High School Principal, my aunts and uncles were assistant principals, and my mother was a special education teacher for over 30 years.

Growing up I was inspired to follow in my family's footsteps, as I saw first-hand the positive impact they made on countless children's lives. I wanted to create a safe, positive, and supportive learning environment in which my students can thrive and reach their potential. To me there is no greater satisfaction as a teacher than knowing that I have enriched a student's life emotionally, socially, and academically.

It is my personal philosophy to address the academic, social, and emotional needs of all my students. There is so much more to teaching than the academic component. I have found that my close interactions with parents have generated extraordinary positive results for my students. It is extremely rewarding when emotionally, a student improves, and then academically I witness them thrive.

When teaching students with special needs, it is my hope to provide my students with the skills and confidence they need to become a productive and independent member of society.

My lessons focus on teaching students meaningful life lessons that will contribute to their ability to advocate for themselves and live independently. Many of my lessons focus on SEL skills, sharpening reading ability, and improving writing techniques.

I recognize that with my support, praise, and encouragement, as well as providing individualized instruction which meets his/her needs and learning styles, it has made a difference.

Social Worker

The decision to become a school social worker was shaped by a combination of personal experiences, a passion for education, and a commitment to supporting the well-being of students. Growing up, I encountered various challenges, and I realized the vital role supportive professionals played in navigating those difficulties. The desire to be a source of guidance and encouragement for young individuals facing similar struggles became a compelling motivation. Furthermore, my interest in education as a powerful catalyst for positive change led me to recognize the vital role school social workers play in creating a conducive learning environment. The opportunity to collaborate with educators, parents, and the community to address academic, social, and emotional challenges resonated with my values. Additionally, the prospect of advocating for inclusivity, mental health awareness, and fostering a supportive school culture aligned with my vision for contributing to the whole development of students. These factors collectively fueled my decision to pursue a profession as a school social worker, driven by the belief in the transformative impact of compassionate support within the educational setting.

As a school social worker, my responsibilities typically include providing counseling services to students, collaborating with teachers, administration, guidance counselors and parents to address behavioral or emotional challenges, conducting assessments, developing intervention plans, and serving as the anti-bullying specialist coordinator. School social workers often play a crucial role in advocating for students' needs and connecting them with appropriate resources, both within the school system and in the community. I believe what makes me an exceptional social worker is a combination of empathy, effective communication skills, cultural competence, and a deep understanding of the social and emotional needs of students.

In my role as a school social worker, I contribute to a positive school climate by addressing social and emotional learning barriers. I help students to develop coping mechanisms, conflict resolution skills, and emotional resilience. Through teacher and parent collaboration, I can create a more holistic approach to education, ensuring that students' social and emotional well-being is integrated into their academic success. Through these efforts, I contribute significantly to the overall success and well-being of John E. Dwyer Technology Academy students.