Theresa Hanley - Early Childhood Special Education Educator
Grade Level: Preschool

Why I teach?

I primarily view myself not as a teacher, but as an educator. An educator is perpetually striving for continuous learning and growth, enhancing their knowledge base to benefit both themselves and their community. My lifelong commitment, spanning over 30 years, is dedicated to supporting students with special needs and their families within my community. I am profoundly passionate about establishing a nurturing and solid foundation in early childhood, which I believe can fundamentally alter the trajectory of children and their families for life. This is not just a career for me. It is a way of life.

Advice for New Educators

First,never feel hesitant or embarrassed to ask questions.That is how we learn. As a special needs parent, my commitment is constant—24/7, 365 days a year. While the advice to pace oneself is often given, there are times when forward momentum is essential. When this occurs, take a brief respite, then organize and categorize your workload methodically, similar to how we instruct our students. Ensure that tasks are systematically stored and managed, as both new and veteran educators manage substantial responsibilities, and careful organization  can prevent less problems and stress in the future.