Penny Ferrell
Penny Ferrell is a dedicated instructional coach specializing in special education, committed to supporting new teachers with confidence and clarity. With over six years of classroom teaching experience, she draws on her own journey of starting in special education without guidance to mentor and empower educators entering the field. Her work emphasizes practical strategies, personalized coaching, and creating supportive environments where teachers can thrive.
As the author of The New EC Teacher Playbook: Your Guide to Success, published in both English and Spanish on Amazon, Penny provides a comprehensive resource for new and veteran special education teachers alike. Her passion for this work stems from a personal promise to provide the support she once lacked, ensuring that other educators have the tools and encouragement needed to succeed. She believes deeply that education is a path to freedom, and she centers her approach on faith, determination, and treating others with respect.
Penny holds a Master of Business Administration in Human Resources Management from Strayer University and completed the state-aligned coursework necessary for her teaching certification through UVA-WISE. Beyond her professional role, she actively contributes to her community as secretary of a local non-profit and volunteers with multiple churches and community events. Her career reflects a commitment not only to education but also to mentorship, advocacy, and lifelong learning.
• Teaching certification through UVA-WISE
• Strayer University - M.B.A.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success first and foremost to God, who guides every aspect of my life and work. Beyond that, I credit determination and perseverance as key drivers of my achievements. I strive to walk by faith, remaining steadfast and resilient in the face of challenges. This combination of faith and unwavering commitment has been the foundation of everything I have accomplished.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was to never give up. That simple but powerful message has guided me throughout my journey, especially during the challenging times.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to put God first in all that you do. Stay steadfast in your faith and never give up, even when challenges arise. Embrace your purpose and continue striving to become the woman you know you are meant to be. Faith and perseverance are essential not only for success in this field but also for personal growth and fulfillment.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge for me right now is trying to keep it all together. I'm involved in so many different things - working, promoting my book, and then you have your family and your friends who you want to spend time with. It's a constant balancing act, trying to manage all these commitments while also making sure I get a little rest time in. Just trying to keep it all together is the real challenge.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me most in both my work and personal life are respect and kindness. I believe in treating others the way I would want to be treated—whether it’s colleagues, clients, or friends. Working alongside people you respect, who lead with integrity and care, is essential to a positive and productive environment. These principles shape the way I interact with others and are at the heart of everything I do.
Locations
South Boston, VA 24592