Faces of Long Island celebrates the uniqueness of everyday Long Islanders. In their own words, they tell us about their life experiences, challenges and triumphs. Newsday launched this social media journey into the human experience to shine a light on the diverse people of this wonderful place we call home.

‘This was a turning point in my life where I realized that helping people was my true calling.’

Southampton

“I have always been involved in my community, especially during my high school days. There were many community events that took place, and it was easy for me to get involved. I was always interested in becoming a paramedic, and when I turned 17, I joined the Southampton Village EMS.

“I worked there as an EMT and finished my certification right before my high school graduation. This was a turning point in my life where I realized that helping people was my true calling. I saw the struggles of those in my community and realized I could do more to help.

“I went on to study at college and completed my bachelor’s in English ed. Later, I became a music history teacher before switching to special education. I ran the Southampton Village EMS for a long time and eventually became the chief.

As a special ed teacher, my focus is keeping my students safe and being there for them.

“I fell in love with special education when I was asked to help a student with autism during my time as a choir teacher. I enjoyed seeing how much of a difference I could make in someone’s life and knew that special education was where I wanted to be.

“Later on, I started teaching at Little Flower as a middle school special ed teacher. The position switched from English teaching to special ed teaching, which was a challenge. I love teaching all the subjects and the challenge of teaching eight students with different needs.

“The biggest difference from teaching general education to special education is the ability to adapt and change your approach based on the student’s needs. Each student deserves individual attention and care.

“As a special ed teacher, my focus is keeping my students safe and being there for them. My job isn’t just about teaching lessons, but forming a bond with each of my students. I have learned that it is essential to understand their individual needs and work with them in a way that is most effective. It is a different kind of challenge, but it is a challenge that has given me new purpose and meaning in life.”

Interviewed by Starr Fuentes

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