Judy Page
Judy W. Page is a seasoned special education professional with more than three decades of experience dedicated to supporting children with diverse learning and behavioral needs. Based in Wilmington, North Carolina, she has built a distinguished career grounded in compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to inclusive education. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington with a focus in special education, and later earning a master’s degree in Human Resources from Webster University, Judy combines strong academic preparation with practical expertise in both education and organizational development.
Judy spent over 30 years in the public school system, primarily with New Hanover and Brunswick County Schools, where she served students across elementary, middle, and preschool levels. Throughout her tenure, she specialized in working with children with behavioral and emotional disorders, as well as those requiring individualized education programs (IEPs). Known for her strengths in classroom management, differentiated instruction, and crisis de-escalation, she created structured, supportive environments where students could safely express themselves and develop essential coping skills. Her dedication earned her multiple nominations for Teacher of the Year and leadership roles in student support teams, mentoring programs, and professional learning communities.
Following her retirement from full-time classroom teaching, Judy continued her mission of service by joining Easterseals UCP North Carolina & Virginia, where she works as a Special Education Teacher and Registered Behavior Technician. In this role, she implements Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies, leads specialized group instruction, and supports both students and staff through training and program coordination. Her career reflects a steadfast belief that behavior is a form of communication and that every child deserves a safe, respectful space to learn and grow. Now seeking new opportunities, Judy remains committed to leveraging her extensive experience in roles such as training, coordination, and behavioral health support.
• Webster University - M.A
• Teacher of the Year
• Ann Walker Day Camp for Special Children volunteer
• Church community service
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith, the support of colleagues and community, persistence, and a steadfast commitment to creating safe and nurturing environments for children with complex needs.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from early guidance by UNCW leadership, including Dean Parker, who encouraged me to consider special education—a recommendation that helped shape my career path. Additionally, my father’s advice to pursue work closer to home influenced my practical decisions along the way.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I believe there are two paths for young women entering this industry—some know early what they want to do, while others, like me, take time to explore—and both are okay. Seek guidance from mentors, family, and friends to help clarify your interests, and use opportunities like college electives to discover what truly engages you. Be open to work that supports you financially while pursuing long-term goals, and lean on faith or a strong support system to stay grounded. Take your time, explore, and trust your path.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Some of the biggest challenges in my field include gaps in teacher preparation—universities often teach instructional methods well but don’t fully equip educators to manage challenging behaviors in real classrooms. Low pay and recruitment issues make it difficult to attract and retain skilled teachers. In special education, shifting trends in diagnoses like autism can create inconsistent attention and resources, while the commercialization of services sometimes leads to underqualified providers opening centers for profit. Additionally, certain populations, such as children with developmental delays or Down syndrome, are often overlooked, and advocacy and resources tend to follow the loudest voices rather than all those in need.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My values are rooted in kindness and creating a sense of safety for others. I believe the way we treat people reflects how much we truly value them. In my work with children, I’ve seen how critical it is to ensure everyone feels seen, respected, and safe—especially those who are often overlooked or judged by society.
Locations
Easterseals PORT Health - NC/VA
Wilmington, NC 28409