I always knew I wanted to work with people, especially children, and serve as a catalyst for change in whichever profession I chose. I attended Franciscan University of Steubenville and graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Early Childhood Education. I then continued my education through the University Consortium for Catholic Education program (UCCE), Operation TEACH, at Notre Dame of Maryland University. There I received my Master’s of Leadership in Teaching degree with a concentration in special education and taught middle school language arts, social studies, and religion at Immaculate Conception School in Towson, Maryland. Upon graduation, I relocated to Steubenville, Ohio, to once again be closer to family and begin my career in special education. I currently work at Bishop John King Mussio Junior High and Catholic Central High School as the lead intervention specialist and transition planning coordinator for the Jon Peterson and Autism Scholarship programs. I am passionate about helping students of all ability levels and their families discover what their futures hold. I love being able to empower my students to reach their maximum potential by believing in them, celebrating their successes, and encouraging them to always try their hardest. In addition to teaching, I have worked in athletics as a varsity swim and volleyball coach. Just as with my students in the classroom, I love being able to see my athletes succeed, overcome challenges, utilize their gifts and talents, and work with their teammates to achieve their athletic goals.