Her Story
About Karen
I've been in education on and off for about 6 years, and I've been at my current school for 3 years as a special education co-teacher for geometry. My bachelor's is in human services with a minor in management, and my master's is in education specializing in student services. I'm passionate about giving back to the community and wanting people to be the best versions of themselves, and that starts with getting involved, knowing their day-to-day, and seeing how you can make them the best version of themselves. I work with students with disabilities, including those with autism and specific learning disabilities, focusing on compliance with individualized education plans and differentiated instruction. My typical day involves one-to-one and group instruction, pull-out sessions for students who need audio or reading assistance with test questions, and serving as an advocate to make sure lessons are differentiated enough for all kids to understand, whether they have a disability or not. I also obtained my real estate license when COVID first started, which I consider one of my most notable achievements. Despite the scary and uncertain market conditions, I jumped back out there and have continued with my license despite the hurdles over the last 6 years. I'm a member of the Virginia Peninsula Association of Realtors. Before coming back to high school, I was an academic advisor and coach, working primarily with underrepresented and marginalized students. I was one of the first in my family to go to college and get a degree, coming from a larger family where most are blue-collar workers, mechanics, and entrepreneurs. That experience taught me how important community is for students, especially those who don't have anyone from their past to relate to or help them navigate beyond high school or college.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Karen
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would literally say my mother, she's no longer with me. But I would say, literally, the way that she lived her life, she lived her life as an example of God and for God, so even though you may read a scripture, someone who actually lives out the Word.
02What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Number one, to treat others like you want to be treated. I learned this from a pastor years ago - she said you can say anything to anyone as long as you have the right tone. So you're able to speak to anyone on any level, with any subject, even if it's not something that's a great conversation, as long as your tone is the right tone, it can be received by anybody. I find that people have a hard time with conflict because our tone may always change, but if you have the right tone, then you can speak on any situation to anybody without there being any attitude. And even if they are gonna feel that way, your tone matters. In everything you say, your tone is important.
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