What year did you finish?
I completed my program in May 2017.
How has the program impacted you?
The preparation I received at Saint Mary's in the Special Education Credential program was remarkable. The educators were passionate, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable in their fields. Because I was in the internship program, I was teaching during the day, and going to school at Saint Mary's in the evenings. I wouldn't have done it any other way. The practical information I was able to glean during class on a nightly basis directly impacted my experiences in the classroom the next morning. At Saint Mary's, I felt supported, challenged, and respected as a learner and future teacher. I notice on a daily basis the ways in which I am so well prepared for this demanding career thanks to the rigor of the program.
What are you doing now?
I teach a 3rd-5th grade Mild/Moderate SDC class in Castro Valley Unified School District.
What do you want people to know about Saint Mary's and the programs you participated in?
Saint Mary's is top notch. The School of Education, and the Education Specialist department in particular, is packed with the best kind of seasoned veterans - those who still have as much passion for teaching as they did when they first entered the field. No matter how exhausted I was after a full day of teaching, I felt privileged to attend classes at Saint Mary's in the evenings, knowing that I was getting the best teacher preparation in the Bay Area. They inspired me, and reinforced for me daily that I had made the right career choice.
How did the scholarship assist you in accomplishing your goals or help out?
The scholarship was a wonderful surprise, and such an encouraging boost to my year. In the midst of an incredibly challenging period, financially and in terms of time management, the aid provided by the scholarship was a welcome buoy. It freed me up to spend some of my own money on supplies that a first year teacher needs to set up the classroom just the way I wanted it. Having to worry a little bit less about money helped me to focus on the learning and growing I was doing.
Why do you feel people should give to our scholarship funds?
Although Saint Mary's is the best school around for teacher education, it might be out of reach financially for a lot of people. I think the Bay Area needs and deserves more teachers who can get the best possible education, while not being broken financially in the process. These scholarship funds make a big difference to people like me, who may be coming to a career education later in life, and who may have kids and responsibilities. Financial support makes taking the leap into a new career a little less daunting. Financial help for a soon-to-be or new teacher is one of the best ways I can think of to support education in the Bay Area.
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
I would have a magic wand of Tolerance!
Anything you want to add?
I tell anyone thinking of a career in education to consider Saint Mary's. I'm grateful every day for my choice.