For over 20 years, I have worked as an educator, teacher trainer, instructional leader, gifted and talented coordinator, and special education liaison within in Santa Ana, California.

My master’s degree in education focused on Curriculum and Instruction and my doctoral degree in Educational Leadership explored the effects of teacher awareness and training on the academic and social-emotional outcomes of twice-exceptional learners. I present on the topic of twice-exceptionality, gifted diverse learners and teacher awareness and training at various conferences in California and on the east coast. I have recently co-developed districtwide training modules for special education and gifted education departments with the goal of broadening awareness among teachers and administrators on topics ranging from twice-exceptionality, gifted diverse learners, inclusive practices and co-teaching strategies.

My passion and advocacy in the twice-exceptional community stems from my struggles as a parent and an educator. Through my experiences with my twice-exceptional son and my years as an educator with economically, linguistically and culturally diverse students, I am committed to ensuring that all marginalized populations of students have a voice and are recognized for their strengths and gifts.