I love making a difference in someone's life which sometimes goes beyond knowledge. It's exciting to see the moment when students "get it" and learn something that they did not know before. But it's also fulfilling to see them grow socially and emotionally throughout the school year. It is my hope to inspire my students to be the best people they can be and to inspire them to believe that anything is possible.

One of the best things about working at Packanack is the comradery among my colleagues. We have a special connection and are continuously working together as a team. We care about and take responsibility for all of our students. In addition, I appreciate the support from Packanack School's administrators who take the time to listen to the teachers and believe that we always put our students' needs first.

I enjoy being a speech language specialist because of the way I can help students to better communicate. It is very rewarding to work with students who have different personalities and abilities while making a positive impact in their lives and the lives of their families. Working as a speech language specialist I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of students from preschool to high school. Each student brings a different experience and I find myself learning and growing with them. It is the best feeling when a student shares the joy and pride of a breakthrough with me and I can see their excitement as connections open for them.

The Wayne District is very near and dear to me as I was a student who graduated through this school system. It was the place I chose as my educational externship and my clinical fellowship year. Wayne has a large and collaborative speech department who are supportive and creative. We also have an outstanding Assistive Technology Team. This is something not every district has and I am grateful to be a part of it. My teammates share knowledge and resources with one another and go above and beyond to help the students and families who live in Wayne. I am also very appreciative of my wonderful colleagues who I can collaborate with in the classrooms and administration that is understanding and helpful. The people I work with in Wayne encourage me to be a stronger, more creative, and overall better speech language specialist and AT Team Member.