This month's Spotlight features Sarah Damiani, a dedicated history teacher at Burlington City High School in Burlington City, New Jersey. With 15 years of experience across multiple grade levels, Sarah has built her career around supporting students with diverse needs.

She is now deepening her skills through NJCTL's combined Special Education (TOSD) Endorsement and Master of Science in Special Education program, earning her graduate degree along with the TOSD endorsement.

"I've always been interested in working with students with special needs," Sarah says. "This program has given me a deeper understanding of the legal aspects and has given me tons of ideas of how to better support my students."

Her district introduced her to NJCTL, and the TOSD certification seemed like a natural fit. In the classroom, the program has validated many of her current practices, assuring her that she is on the right track. At the same time, new knowledge--especially around IEPs--has shifted her perspective. "It helped me see why we do what we do," she explains.

That understanding has made her a stronger advocate for her students. "Now I can come to case managers with specific questions and really work together to dig deeper," she says. "It's helped me understand what services should be provided and what I can do to support particular students in my classroom."

This year, Sarah is working in her school's alternative program, an experience she finds especially meaningful. "These students have so much potential, but are often misunderstood," she says. "This program is designed to support the whole student." With smaller class sizes and more individualized attention, she's better able to understand student behavior and build connections.

She is especially passionate about helping students discover their potential. "I want them to be able to see that they have strengths," she says. "And for other people to see that too. Just because you have an IEP doesn't mean you can't do great things."

In addition to what she's gained in the classroom, Sarah also values NJCTL's affordability, flexibility, and strong support system. "You can't beat the price, and being able to work at my own pace was huge," she notes. "The professors are also very responsive, even answering emails over the weekend! I always felt heard."

We are proud to have such a skilled and compassionate teacher in our program and look forward to the difference she will continue to make in the lives of her students.