I have been a teacher in the public school setting for over 40 years, which has provided me with a wide range of experience in teaching; I have also worked as a private tutor. Having taken a number of classes in psychology and counseling, and having been endorsed as a special education teacher, I've found my passion for working with children diagnosed as having "special needs," and particularly children in kindergarten through 6th grade. I have a heart for children who struggle with a negative self image-- who might feel "stupid" or otherwise stigmatized. I am committed to equipping and empowering them to realize their potential: to build their self esteem and dispel the harmful "self talk" that can be so defeating. I love celebrating each child's beautiful individuality!