Spedup Program

“At this point in my life, I truly see SpedUP as a blessing, an opportunity that came at just the right time to help me move forward and continue building my path in education. Being part of the SpedUP Program is important to me because it represents more than just academic progress, it’s a chance to grow personally and professionally in a supportive environment. It gives me the tools, guidance, and encouragement I need to keep moving forward. For someone like me, who is committed to building a better future through education, SpedUP is not just a program, it’s a meaningful step toward my dreams. As I gain more experience and insight, I look forward to setting new goals that allow me to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students with special needs.”

“I chose to be in the SpedUP program to gain targeted skills in special education methods, inclusive teaching strategies, and support techniques for students with diverse learning needs. I love hanging out with my family and spending time with my grandson.”

“As a teacher's assistant for 13 years, it is time to advance my role to help our precious students. SpedUP comes in and takes the burden of paying for school, books and all other necessities. Having the cohort experience in the SpedUP program gives me the burst of confidence that I can do college with a community. My interests are to be more and do more than what I am now. My passion is to help boys and girls read and be their best. My hobbies include traveling, cooking and mentoring.”

“What made me choose to enroll in SpedUP was the support they offer and to help students to become educators. I am dedicated and focused on becoming an educator to change lives and SpedUP helps you every step of the way.  My career goals in special education are to make a difference and impact on the children that need it most. It is so important to me that I am not only an educator but a safe space as well. Being part of a cohort has helped my experience by all of the knowledge coming from current educators. Listening to these educators speak about their experiences has made me motivated and I am so happy to be part of such an amazing program like SpedUP. My interests are reading and spending time outside. My passion is to become an educator in special education and make a difference. My hobbies include volleyball, pickleball and bike riding.”

“I enrolled in the SpedUP program because I want to become a special education teacher, this program provides me with a support system not only financially, but I receive so much knowledge and help. Being part of the SpedUP program gives me the opportunity to make a change not in my life, but in every child that I get to call my student in the future. The SpedUP program helps me and gives me a support system to help, push, and guide me.  Being part of this cohort gives me a support system that guides me to better choices and options. I love God, my faith is very important to me and I know that the only reason why I have this blessing of attending school and being part of this program is all thanks to God.”

“What made me choose to enroll in this program is seeing the lack of diversity in education. I work at a school as an EA, and I help students who's second language is English. Also seeing my colleagues trying to connect and help students even if there was a language barrier inspired me even more to pursue a career in education. Growing up there weren't many teachers who I could communicate with or who took their time to help me. I want to help students, help them bring down any barrier they may encounter. I work as an English Language EA, my favorite part of my job is when I'm able to help a student understand something they were struggling with! I love my 4 cats. I also love going hiking, trying out new foods from different cultures.”

"Being part of the SpedUP Program comes with so many benefits. You have a good amount of people in your cohort that once you get to know you develop an amazing support system. Then to top it all off you get the good feelings that come with knowing you're working towards one of the most rewarding careers out there!"

“I chose to enroll in the SpedUP Program first because of my sister, who is nearly finished and had nothing but rave reviews. Her testimony inspired me and encouraged me to apply. In addition, when I shared the news with my SPED team at school, they were incredibly supportive and expressed genuine excitement, offering to help me in any way they could. And then—my students. When they found out I had applied to become a teacher, they cheered, congratulated me, and told me how proud they were. That moment meant everything. Most importantly, I chose to enroll because I want to make a real difference in people’s lives. These kids need us, and I’m honored to have heard the call—and to answer it with my whole heart. I currently work at a charter school as a SPED paraprofessional. My favorite part of the job is getting to know each of my students individually. Some of my interests are going camping, enjoying live music, and spending time with my loved ones. I'm passionate about learning, the environment, and creating art with anything I can get my hands on.”

"I picked SpedUP because I like that it keeps me on track a little quicker to finishing my degree. It feels like the best way to keep pushing me in my career while getting the support I need. Being part of this program is important to me because I'll get the training and guidance to become a stronger educator. It is also great to have many cohorts that have the same goals. My goal is to become a special education teacher and support students with challenges they face. I am an Education Support Professional in a special education school district, and my favorite part of my job is seeing those small wins after seeing a student that struggles. It makes the end of the day feel worth it. Being part of the cohort in this program has made me felt driven, and excited to continue my education. Some of my biggest passions are working with students and seeing them grow, but outside of work I play competitive pickleball, and compete. Pickleball has taught me to be patient, and teamwork skills I bring into the classroom. I also enjoy doing nails in the summer time as a creative outlet, spending time with family, and continuing my education."

"I saw the SpedUP Program as an opportunity to not only deepen my understanding of special education, but also to expand my career options within education. It’s a strong foundation for the
path I want to pursue. It’s important to be part of the SpedUP Program because it connects me with others who share the same passion for supporting students. Together, we can share ideas, resources, and encouragement to make sure every student has the chance to succeed. My career goal in Special Education is to become a skilled and compassionate educator who can create inclusive classrooms where every student feels supported and valued. I hope to continue
developing my expertise, eventually taking on leadership roles where I can mentor others and advocate for stronger special education programs. My favorite part of my job is building connections with students, watching each child grow, and seeing them achieve their goals in a safe, inclusive environment. Being part of a cohort has helped my experience in the SpedUP program by giving me a strong support system. Having peers to share ideas, challenges, and
successes makes the program more collaborative and meaningful. It’s encouraging to learn and grow alongside others who are equally passionate about supporting students with special needs.
Some of my passions and hobbies include coaching softball and volleyball, spending time with friends and family, and traveling whenever I get the chance.”

"My goal is to earn my special education teaching license. SpedUP has helped and supported me with advising, directing, and scholarships to support my dream."

"I chose to enroll in the SpedUP program for the extra support and resources I needed to succeed in my career. It has helped me grow and given me experiences. My goal is to be able to make an impact on students' lives."

"I chose to enroll in the SpedUP program because I love kids and enjoy helping them. Being part of a cohort makes my goal achievable and I can implement my studies into real life practice."

"I want to get my special education teaching license and SpedUP offers the support I need to succeed. The SpedUP cohort is made up of a diverse group of people, which makes you feel inclusive. My favorite part of my job is seeing students develop each day."

"Throughout my experience working with children, I discovered that I enjoy challenging myself, teaching, learning, and helping others. The SpedUP program helps me to pursue who I want to become in the future and work with experienced educators who are always there to guide us. Being part of a cohort with other future educators and experts in the field is a great opportunity."

"My experience in SpedUP has allowed me, a man of color an opportunity to get a degree in the field of education to match the experience I already have."

"I enrolled in the SpedUP program because I enjoy working with kids and learning from them. Being part of SpedUP gives me the chance to further my education. My career goal is to be in the classroom to teachkindergarten students and help implement IEPs."

“I chose to enroll in the SpedUP program to bring culture and identity into special education. Representation matters. My career goal is to be a center-based teacher for students with autism.  I would also love to visit different reservations and help with students with special needs.  I am a mother of four, I love spending time with my kids, going to zoos, museums, parks, and grilling!  I love attending powwows and round dances.” 

“It is important to be part of the SpedUP program to network and make lifelong friends with people that share the same interests. My career goal is to become a licensed autism spectrum disorder special education teacher. I enjoy working with my students and creating individualized schedules to accommodate their needs.” 

“I enrolled in the SpedUP program because it has given me the opportunity to kick start my career in Special Education. This is my second year in the program, and I have enjoyed every minute of it! The SpedUP program and as well as Normandale want to see their students succeed. It is important for me to be part of the SpedUP program because I want to not only inspire the students I work with but also my Latino community. I currently work as a Special Education paraprofessional. I have worked with middle schoolers and as well as high schoolers with ASD/EBD. One of my many favorite parts of the job is when I see my students hit their IEP goal(s). Being part of the cohort has helped my experience by kick starting my career in Special Education. My hobbies include reading, hiking, going to concerts, and spending time with my little family.”

“I am passionate about helping students receiving special education services. I have a dream and want to make a difference in the world.”   

“Participation in the SpedUP Program can open doors for future career opportunities, helping me advance in the field of special education.  I currently work as a paraprofessional, my favorite part is connecting with students and supporting teachers.  Being part of a cohort provides a built-in support system. You can share experiences, challenges, and successes with peers who understand what you are going through, which makes the journey less isolating and more encouraging.”  

“It is important to be part of SpedUP because of the helpful resources given to help reach your goals. I get to meet new people and make new connections.  I want to become a Special Education Teacher working with high school students and transition. I am currently working as a paraprofessional, my favorite part about the job is building relationships and helping students make progress.”

“I chose to be in SpedUP because it allows me to show students there are people who look like them and care about their education and success.  Being part of a cohort has helped me connect better with people who work in special education and share the same goals. I enjoy reading, painting, and cooking meals for my family.”

“As a Special Education Paraeducator for 10 years, working with students is the favorite part of my job. Joining the SpedUP Program is important for my personal growth, community participation, and skill improvement. The program's special curriculum focuses on both school learning and personal development stood out to me right away. Joining the SpedUP Program will give me the knowledge and skills I need for my career, as well as a lasting passion for learning. Participants get personalized help and advice to meet their specific needs, which helps students grow academically and personally. Furthermore, the SpedUP Program promotes teamwork among members, fostering a feeling of unity and friendship. As a Special Education Teacher, I want to create classrooms where all students feel included and supported. I want to speak up for students with special needs in order to receive quality education. I want to work with families, communities, and other teachers to create education plans to highlight students’ strengths and talents.”       

"I chose to enroll in the SpedUP program to fulfill my goal in becoming a special education teacher and to begin networking. I receive support in registering for the correct classes."

"The importance of being a part of SpedUP is bigger than me. I have the opportunity to inspire youth to go to college! Also, as I witness and learn more in-depth about the disparities among students of color in schools and the importance of teachers of color, I get to walk in my purpose and show students of color that they have the opportunity to contribute to changing the future of classrooms and education."

"The SpedUP program is important because of the cohort model. It has made such a difference in my college journey. I want to be a high school special education teacher and eventually become a special education coordinator. My favorite part of my job is connecting with my students."

"As a para educator in early childhood education, I enjoy watching the youngest learners in my community grow academically, emotionally, and socially. Being part of a cohort is important because I can partner with peers when I am facing challenges to share feedback to help each other succeed."

"I chose SpedUP to further my education and help students make it through life challenges despite having disabilities. As a para educator, my favorite part of my job is not knowing what the day may bring."

"I have been a paraeducator for 10 years and becoming a special education teacher is a direct pathway. Being part of SpedUP is important because it is giving me an opportunity to get my degree in the field that I am so passionate about and allows women who look like me the chance to eliminate some of the barriers we may face."

"Being part of a cohort in the SpedUP program has been transformative, helping to remove barriers, make college possible, boost self-belief, and serve as a powerful example for both my own children and the students I work with. It highlights the importance of a supportive community in achieving educational and personal goals."

Brea was recently recognized by the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) for her dedication and commitment to helping students achieve academic success

"I chose to enroll in the SpedUP program to be part of a teaching community. I would like to work with elementary age students to support their success in education. My favorite part of my job is seeing the smile on the students' faces and learning about their needs."

"Enrolling in the SpedUp Program was not only based on the academic benefits but also the cohort comradery and developing skills that will help in my career. This program has enhanced my already positive experience and motivation here at Normandale Community College."