Developmental Skills Program

I have been a Special Education teacher for a long time. It is a calling for me. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Special Education, both from the American University in Washington, DC. I have a Doctorate in Educational Psychology from American International College in Springfield, MA. I have taught students from pre-school all the way to the age of 22 with varying degrees of abilities. Currently, I am a Developmental Skills Special Education teacher, which I love. I enjoy reading, biking, and being creative (drawing, painting, building) when I am not in my classroom. I am married to my best friend, have three awesome children, one neurotic beagle, and five devious cats.

I was born and raised in Springfield MA and I am 1 of 10 siblings. I have 3 beautiful, intelligent and successful daughters Damahya, Domonique and Shavon, who are all products of the Springfield Public School system. I became involved in education when my youngest child was born; as a single mother the hours were great for me. This decision has definitely been one of best I have made, as not only was I able to be available when my children needed me, but I was also able to make a difference in the lives of so many others.

I was a Special Education paraprofessional for 19 years at Rebecca Johnson School. When my youngest entered high school I returned to continue my education at Springfield College. I graduated with a Bachelor's in Science in May 2018. In the 2018-2019 school year I was a second/third grade Developmental teacher and I absolutely loved it.

I'm excited to make the transition to the high school level, as a parent of a Renaissance graduate, what better community to join than the Phoenix!

I am a Special Education Teacher for the Developmental program here at Renaissance High School. I graduated from The High School of Science & Technology in 2002, then graduated from Westfield State University in 2007 with a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Science. This will be my third year at Renaissance High School and every year has been rewarding in different ways. One reward that I get to enjoy every winter is being the Head Basketball Coach for the boy’s middle school team. There's nothing like hearing “Coach!” being yelled through the hallways of school.

This is my 4th year at Renaissance School and 5th year working with the Developmental Program as a Licensed Practical Nurse. I completed my nursing education in Puerto Rico. I have years of nursing experience in different health settings in Puerto Rico and Massachusetts. I love my family; Husband, 3 daughters and grandkids. Also, I love and enjoy working with kids with special needs; in their lives "One person can make a difference and everyone should try." - John F. Kennedy​