Posted February 6, 2020- written by Molly Rutter, SOE Graduate Assistant
Stefanie Caie recalls the sightseeing, delicious food and friendly atmosphere in Houston when she first visited in December, 2016. “I came to Houston for a week just to get a feel of what a classroom is like in the Houston Independent School District (HISD),” she said.
Stefanie came to realize that pursuing a job in Houston after graduation was a once in a lifetime opportunity. “I decided now was my time to go out of my comfort zone and try something new,” she said, “I was born and raised in Buffalo, so I decided to do something for myself and make a change.”
Stefanie ended up accepting a position as a resource teacher at James H. Law Elementary, where she enjoys watching her students acquire new skills and progressing towards their IEP goals. “Just because they have a disability does not mean they can’t accomplish what is set in front of them,” she said. “I love when I see my students have that “aha!” moment knowing that they have just acquired something new.”
Stefanie says that HISD offers plenty of support and resources to make the school year successful. “Every day I learn something new, and I absolutely love it,” she said. “Houston provides a great opportunity to experience what else is out there. I highly suggest that future teachers keep their options open.”
Although some days are tougher than others, Stefanie is pleased with her decision to pursue a teaching job in Houston. “It was not an easy choice to move over 1,000 miles away from home, but I am happy with my decision,” she said. “I believe I have become a stronger person."
