Energized Santa Monica local training to be a Speech Therapist

Matthew P.

My name is Matthew, and I am a graduate of Humboldt State University with a BA in Religious Studies and a minor in Philosophy. Since 2019 I have honed my skills in various educational settings as a substitute teacher, instructional classroom assistant, paraprofessional, and even rock-climbing instructor. I excel in this field as I am sensitive, patient, and lighthearted. The basis of my approach towards student learning is to meet the learners where they are and accommodate them and tailor the curriculum to their individual needs. The part time nature of this position is perfect for me since I will be starting a speech language pathology post baccalaureate degree this January.
As an instructional assistant at McKinley Elementary in Santa Monica and as a paraprofessional at Stober Elementary in Lakewood, CO I worked in many different modalities from the classroom to the recess field. I learned to be flexible and manage large groups of children while also working one-on-one with individual students who require extra attention. I particularly made great head way connecting with those with disabilities and neurodivergent needs by demonstrating a remarkable sensitivity to their unique challenges. As well, in Lakewood, CO where I worked last year as a paraprofessional many new students from Venezuela needed extra attention to get up to speed and integrate into the classroom. Due to the understaffed ESL program, I was compelled to practice my Spanish and include these students into classroom and recess activities as best I knew how. I wear many hats at the schools at which I’ve worked, and I never deny a challenge or turn away a new learning experience.