Desiree 

I joined the workforce as an ABA Certified Therapist, where I implemented the Lovaas/UCLA Applied Behavior Analysis Model of Intensive Behavioral Intervention for children with an autism spectrum disorder. I perfected my exuberant dance moves in this work and learned to embrace the value of being your unique self.

After graduating college, I worked as a Counselor for adolescents and their families. This was the only time I was ever “trendy”- have I mentioned I’m not on any social media platforms?

I missed working in early childhood education and took a position with a non-profit preschool as a Teacher and Program Director. I learned to expand minds, spark curiosity, and cultivate and awaken souls to their true potential during this time. On top of that, I’ve learned that I operate well under pressure, and there’s not a lot that will overwhelm me. Do you need me to plunge a toilet, comfort a child, listen to a bad joke, sing an annoyingly catchy song, or break up a fight? Just ask; I’m on it.

With a deep love of reading, I became an Orton-Gillingham specialist. As an educator, nothing compares to watching a child expand their vocabulary and build independence and self-confidence by instilling a love of reading.

Working in education has allowed me to spend various summers teaching at orphanages worldwide. I lived and volunteered in Lusaka, Zambia, with the University of Zambia, and La Paz, Bolivia, with La Fundación Alalay.