A Little Bit About Me

I have been a teacher for many years, beginning in mainstream classrooms for three years before finding my passion in Special Education. I am currently a dedicated Special Education Teacher of the Deaf, focusing on Deaf education for the past five years and making and creating resources for Deaf kids. While I’m still relatively new in this field, I’m learning and growing every day. I may have three university certificates in education, but to me, they really are just pieces of paper. What counts most is being on the ground, learning as you go, and growing alongside the children and amazing professionals around you. I bring a wealth of experience working with children with diverse needs… but let’s be real, I still have plenty of “What the??” moments where I have absolutely no idea what I’m doing, and that’s part of the fun of learning every day. Inclusive education is my niche because it challenges me, fuels my passion, and ensures that no two days are ever the same, which is exactly what I love about it!

Speaking of different, I’m a little different, a bit quirky, a touch wild… and I like to think wonderful too. I might make being colourful and bright look easy, but trust me, its been a journey! Embracing who you are takes a lot of dedication. Along the way, self-doubt, imposter syndrome, grief and random little setbacks love to hitch a ride. It’s a jumble of hard work, therapy sessions with friends, family and professionals, some deep thinking and reflecting, some stop start chaos with full time work then part time work, and the occasional “Why me?!” panic… all generously sprinkled with gratitude for both the tiny (and giant) joys right in front of me.

Being my authentic self helps me inspire others especially the Deaf children I work with, to embrace who they are. I want them to know that being different can be tricky sometimes, but when you celebrate and love yourself just as you are, when you are kind to yourself and the people around you, life suddenly feels a whole lot brighter and easier.

One of my positive outlets in life has always been to create. Whether that be, writing, drawing, painting, mosaicking, leaving messages in the sand on the beach and crafting up a storm. I have written stories, poems, created pictures and done craft since I was in primary school and I have always dreamed of sharing my creations with the world. So it is incredibly exciting to be slowly sharing some of my work with you all.

Check out this mini video of my first ever book creation “The Dinosaur That Needed Braces” 11 year old me tells the story of a young T-Rex with crooked teeth. T-Rexes are famous for their sharp, perfect teeth and this young dinosaur became the target of teasing. But after a visit to the Dino-Dentist and getting braces, her smile transformed, her teeth became beautiful, her confidence flourished and the teasing finally stopped. The story is a playful reminder that a little care and courage can make a big difference and that everyone’s smile is something to celebrate!