As one of the newest additions to the PA Distance family, Mrs. Erin Rogers brings a wealth of knowledge and teaching experience to the Special Education Department. As an undergrad at Duquesne University, Mrs. Rogers worked in the Deans’ office of the School of Education through a work-study program. While there, she developed a love for education and decided to pursue a career as a teacher. She graduated with a B.S. in Psychology and later went on to earn an M.S. in Education. She has teaching certifications in Special Education N-12 and English 7-12.
Now, as a special education teacher for 11th and 12th-grade students, Mrs. Rogers helps them work towards graduating and planning for their futures.
“I’m very passionate about preparing my students for life beyond high school,” she said. “And, helping them to become active members of society.”
With a caseload of about 24 students, Mrs. Rogers spends her days assisting students with class assignments in resource rooms, writing IEPs, holding IEP meetings, and monitoring her student’s overall academic progress. She also holds one-on-one check-in sessions to discuss pending work and their transition plan for post-graduation.
“I get to know the kids and work on assignments with them,” she explained.
“Not every student opens up right away. Once I’ve built a relationship, and they know I believe in them, then they do. That’s my favorite part,” she said. “It’s also really cool that I can work with kids all over the state.”
Mrs. Rogers also notes that, as a new teacher, she has received plenty of training and support from her fellow teachers.
“We have a special education induction program where new teachers can ask questions of our experienced mentors,” she explained. “It’s really helpful and a great support.”
“I’m surrounded by extremely positive and supportive people,” she said. “There is not a day that I’ve woken up in the morning and not wanted to come to work here. We are all here because we want to do great things.”
“It’s a challenging environment but also a well-oiled machine and we all make sure our students get what they need,” she added.
When asked about the future, Mrs. Rogers looks forward to graduation.
“I’m excited to see my students graduate,” she said. “They’re working hard and a big part of my job is keeping them motivated, focused, and ready for that next step.”