"My name is Ellen F. I became a teacher 18 years ago and have loved every minute! In 2012, I was awarded a scholarship that allowed me the opportunity to study/train to become a Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Therapist. I attend a variety of professional development to keep my teaching and strategies current. There are different agencies that certify me. These include the International Dyslexia Association (IDA), The International Multisensory Structured Langauge Education Council (IMSLEC), and Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI).

In 2015, my family and I moved to Florida. I was hired as an Exceptional Student Education teacher and worked with a range of students from Kindergarten - Twelfth Grade. I also work with adult learners in college and beyond. My days are involved teaching students with different learning styles and abilities.

My philosophy about education is that every student deserves to learn. Each child is unique and brings his/her own backstory. There is never a one size fits all method for educating. I work hard to create a learning environment that is challenging, rewarding and safe. I want my students to know it’s okay to make mistakes because that’s how they learn. My students know that I have high expectations.

I believe there needs to be continual and clear communication which is why I create strong partnerships with my students and their families. Teaching is not just a job and it cannot be done alone. Families and teachers are a team that need to work together to instill a lifelong love of learning. “I cannot do all the good that the world needs. But the world needs all the good that I can do”. -Jana Stanfield." less...