Introduction

Hello,

Allow me to introduce myself. I have about 10 years of teaching experience as a special educator at the middle level and 5 years at the lower elementary grades. My husband has fourteen years experience as a middle level science teacher and is currently an assistant principal at a middle school.  We both received our Master’s degree in 2006. Currently, I am teaching in the Special Education Department at UMF and have thoroughly enjoyed doing so for the past four years.

I am a doctoral student in an individualized program focusing on Curriculum and Instruction and Special Education. I am in my final phase of coursework.  I plan on starting my dissertation process next summer. My research interests include:
•    School Reform (Especially Response to Intervention or RTI);
•    Inclusive Education and Practices;
•    Organizational Behavior;
•    Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS);
•    Universal Design for Learning;
•    Paraeducator Supervision and Practices; and
•    Middle Level Education.

I am in the final stages of a case study that I am doing on “Middle Level Teachers' Sense Making of RTI.” I am completing my last round of interviews this week after their first year of implementation! I hope to gain valuable insights and engage in critical reading and reflection throughout this course. In turn, I intend to synthesize this information into my final analysis and interpretations of the data, and make sound recommendations for future practice and further research. I will share aspects of my study as they relate to the course readings and resources and the discussion posts that are required for this course.

With my experience at the middle level, I hope to bring valuable contributions. However, most of all, I am looking forward to learning from all of you!