School: 2022-Present; Substitute teacher with The Substitute Teacher Service (STS), 2010-2022: Special Education Teacher at Loomis Elementary, 1987-2010: Special Education Teacher at Russell Elementary, 1985-1987: Special Education Teacher at the Don Guanella School
Education: I earned both my undergraduate and graduate degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education from Cabrini University.
Years Teaching: 37+ years
What inspired you to become an educator? Bonnie Boyer, my 6th-grade teacher at Loomis Elementary, inspired me to become an educator. She recognized early on that I enjoyed helping my peers within the classroom, and it was her encouragement that guided me toward a future in education.
Favorite Book / Favorite Movie? The Plain Truth by Jodi Picoult / Mama Mia!
If not teaching, what career would you choose? If I were not a teacher, I would choose a career working with the elderly population. I find it rewarding to build relationships, provide support, and help older individuals.
Something about you that may surprise people: Not only was I a teacher in the Marple Newtown School District for 35 years, but I was also a student in the district for 12 years.
“Prior to becoming a substitute teacher, I worked as a full-time special education teacher at Loomis Elementary, shared Joan. “After retiring in June of 2022, I quickly realized how much I missed working with students in the school setting. To fill this void, I made the decision to become a substitute teacher so I could continue making a positive impact while maintaining a flexible schedule.”
“I believe that every student has the ability to make academic growth when presented with guidance, encouragement, and instruction tailored to their individual needs,” Joan said. “Working with the special education population for most of my career, taught me the true meaning of resilience and hard work. I witnessed firsthand the determination of students who faced significant learning challenges, and I had the privilege of watching them overcome obstacles while working towards their goals.”
When asked what one of the most unforgettable moments has been from all her years of teaching, Joan said, “On my last day before retirement, one of my former students came to visit me and to wish me well as I headed into retirement. She shared how much of an impact I had made on her, and how I helped to inspire her decision to work with children in a school setting herself. This interaction was a heartfelt reminder to me of the lasting influence we as educators can have on the lives of our students. The relationships we forge within the classroom can stay with us and our students long after they leave our classroom.”