Education is essential to development and all individuals deserve the same right to receive a variety of enriched learning opportunities.

I agree with the expression knowledge is power, this is one of the key driving forces behind chose to educate young children, through developmentally appropriate practices that encourage optimal growth , development that encourages curiosity and discovery. My career goal is to receive a Masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with an emphasis in autism. ABA is an intense one on one therapy used to increase positive outcomes and behaviors associated with Autism. After completing my Associate of Applied Science degree in early childhood education I will attend Ball State University to work toward a Bachelors degree in child development. This will give me the credentials needed to pursue a Masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis with an emphasis in autism (ABA). I have multiple reasons for choosing a career in ABA. I have two children with autism, one who receives ABA therapy on a daily basis. I want to help children and families affected by Autism through the experiences and knowledge I have gained over the years. Using my experiences as a parent of children with Autism, advocate and educator I can aid families in their journey by providing resources, experience, knowledge and training on the subject of autism and child development. I am currently an autism parent mentor for Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) and a Parent Support Volunteer for INSOURCE of Indiana. Through these organizations I am helping families learn and become more knowledgeable in Autism, Individualized Education Programs, Section 504 plans and more.

Currently I work in a daycare setting as a curriculum coordinator and teacher. I provide developmentally appropriate curriculum based on the Indiana Foundations. I implement and create this curriculum enabling children aged 6mo.-5yrs. to facilitate optimal outcomes for their overall development. Education and autism advocacy are a passion of mine and will enhance the impact I have on children and families. I believe I can gain knowledge as well as provide experience and expertise to families enhancing their quality of education.