Her Story
About Theresa
I have been in my field for 23 years, going on 24. From a very young age, I knew I wanted to be in education - I often enjoyed helping my classmates try to understand new topics that were being taught, and if they were having a hard time, I would try to find different ways to help them learn and understand it. In college, when I was exploring special education, one of my first field experiences was in a multiple disability support classroom. I was just amazed at the work the staff were dedicated in doing and how hard the students were working towards achieving those goals. That's where I really shifted my focus to special education. I taught for 14 years before returning to school to pursue a career in administration, believing that I could make an even greater impact by supporting special educators in learning, growth, and skill development as teachers. Now I support not only classroom teachers but also teacher assistants, school-based therapists and healthcare support providers, bringing the whole team together to focus on students' educational programming so the work's not siloed - it's really an interdisciplinary team working together to meet the students' goals and see the student as a whole.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Theresa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of perseverance, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn from every experience. I believe that staying dedicated, being open to new ideas, and maintaining a positive attitude have helped me overcome challenges and grow both personally and professionally. Watching students grow and succeed along the way is one of the most rewarding parts of my work, and it keeps me motivated to keep pushing forward.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always assume good intent and to always assume competency in others. When you believe that others are acting with good intentions and are capable, you contribute to a space where everyone can thrive and do their best.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Always maintain an open mind and seek out opportunities for continuous learning. Remaining open to grow both personally and professionally are so important because the world is every changing, and students' experiences are also change daily. By staying flexible, patient, and curious, you can better adapt to these changes, improve your effectiveness, and ultimately make a greater impact in your role.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge right now is hiring teachers due to a shortage. I understand firsthand that teaching is a demanding job, and I often see teachers experiencing burnout. I currently focus on supporting teachers and staff in their roles by making sure they have the resources they need to success while also being mindful of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I also look for opportunities to encourage and inspire young adults to develop an interest in pursuing careers in education, especially in special education.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Trust and respect are really important to me in both my work and personal life. I believe that being open, honest, and transparent with your team helps build trust and creates a positive environment where everyone can work well together. I’ve seen situations where trust has been broken, and it always ends up affecting the students’ experience in the end. So, for me, building and maintaining trust in the team is one of the most valuable things. I also try to keep in mind my "why" and always put students first in any decision I make. Focusing on their needs, abilities, and goals helps me choose the best path forward and makes sure we’re making a real difference.
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