Kaitlin recently received her teaching license and is now certified to teach kindergarten through 12th grade! She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Findlay and her master’s degree from Otterbein University. When asked how it felt to finally receive her teaching license Kaitlin said, “It feels surreal.” In the next few weeks Kaitlin will be taking the test to receive her Reading Endorsement.
Having grown up on an IEP, Kaitlin is interested in being an Intervention Specialist or a Reading Specialist. “I know the process and understand the child’s perspective,” Kaitlin explains. The Ohio School for the Blind and Woodward Elementary were two of the schools where Kaitlin did her student teaching. She experienced a variety of inclusionary classroom models, preparing her for her future career.
Kaitlin has a team of people who have supported her along the way. Family, friends, and former teachers were all there to cheer her on when times were tough. “When I said ‘I can’t,’ I had a team that showed me how far I’ve come and what I’ve accomplished.”
Understanding what her future students will experience uniquely qualifies Kaitlin for her job. When asked what she hopes to pass on to other students who have disabilities she said, “a diagnoses doesn’t stop you.” It certainly has not stopped Kaitlin. Her incredible determination and perseverance has shown that nothing is impossible.
Kaitlin is currently serving as a long-term substitute teacher until the end of the year. She will begin her full-time teaching position in the fall.