For 29 years, I've dedicated my career to special education, working in both Kansas and Illinois. I started my career as a paraprofessional in the specialized program for students with autism at Quail Run Elementary in Lawrence, KS.  A year later, I became the teacher of the program for the next nine years. In 2004, I moved to Illinois to serve as the Vice President of Operations for the Hope Learning Academy in Springfield, IL. In 2008, I returned to Lawrence and served as a special education facilitator for Lawrence Public Schools for 15 years. For the past 2 years, I’ve been the Special Education Secondary Coordinator and Administrator at Community Connections at Pinckney.  Throughout this journey, I've had the joy of raising two children. Beyond my professional and personal life, I find immense joy in all things sparkly and glittery, embracing the brightness and vibrancy they bring to my world.