I am a special education teacher working with students diagnosed with autism.  Some of these children need extra assistance in their school day with academics, social skills, and daily living skills.  As a child, I grew up in a small farming community in northwestern Iowa by the South Dakota border.  I have 4 other siblings.  My dad was the local vet and my mom worked as a librarian at the elementary school.  I have lived longer in Colorado Springs than I have in Iowa.  My husband and I have lived in the same house for over 30 years.  My son and his family live in Littleton.  I have 2 grandchildren and wish I could spend more time with them.  I have worked with adults and children with challenges since I was 18 years old.  I have worked in group homes, vocational settings, case management and in schools.  Even though I can teach either special education or general education, I have always picked special education.