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    Hello and thank you for visiting my webpage!  I am a special education teacher working with students with emotional disturbances.  Currently, I have been working in the field of special education for the past 12 years. 

    I received my bachelor's degree through Eastern Illinois University.  I majored in special education and have a specialty degree in History.  In May of 2006, I completed my master's degree in Administrative Leadership through the University of Illinois at Springfield.  Currently, I am looking into starting my doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction through Illinois State University. 

    I have had the opportunity to teach at a variety of locations and levels.  Currently, I teach 3rd through 5th grade students with behavioral issues.  In the past, I have taught students in the jr. high and high school settings in resource and cross-categorical settings. 

    One of my primary beliefs is that all children are able to learn and should learn in the least restrictive environment.  Part of my job as a behavior specialist is to work on social skills.  I am a firm believer in positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS).  This philosophy looks to replace negative behaviors with positive ones.  By doing this, we are better able to mainstream students with social/emotional issues back with their peers.