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Pictured is secondary/special education graduate alumna Annie Pugh. Photo submitted by Pugh.

Meet Annie A. Pugh

Job Title & Employer
Intermediate Elementary Teacher, Grade 4, Mt. Lebanon School District
Major/Program
Special Education-M.Ed.
Graduation
April 2017
Hometown
Webster Springs, W.Va.
High School
Webster County High School
Now Living In
Pittsburgh, Pa.

"Annie is a kind, compassionate teacher who diligently works to meet every student's needs within her classroom. She is able to design and implement learning experiences that differentiate the content, process and/or products for her students."

Ron Kitsko, Principal, Lincoln Elementary

"The education faculty members of Point Park are caring, understanding, knowledgeable and insightful … I appreciated their genuine attitudes and willingness to help all."

Annie A. Pugh

Who inspired your passion for teaching?

Growing up with a mother who was a teacher, I was always around and overhearing education discussed as a topic of interest. Playing school with my sisters was one of my favorite childhood activities. My mother's passion for the field of education spilled over inspiring and affecting my future career choice.

I also feel blessed to have had some wonderful teachers throughout my schooling. Emulating their special qualities, I knew the kind of teacher I wanted to become. With a desire to give back, I began down the path that led me to where I am today. Working in an environment that gives me the ability to have a daily impact on young minds, I can't imagine doing anything else!

What factors made you choose Point Park's M.Ed. in special education program?

Point Park's flexible scheduling in the M.Ed. in special education program, which offers classes both online and on ground at the campus, allowed me to attend graduate school and work full time as an elementary school educator.

Describe the teaching styles of Point Park's education faculty.

The education faculty members of Point Park are caring, understanding, knowledgeable and insightful. Having worked in the field themselves, they use their personal experience to enhance learning by sharing struggles and victories that they have had within their own classrooms. I appreciated their genuine attitudes and willingness to help all.

In what ways have your graduate classes helped to enhance your teaching skills?

Education is ever-changing. Techniques cycle in and out, but aiding in the learning, growth and development of students remains constant.

My graduate classes have helped me to become more knowledgeable about special education. With inclusive classrooms, teachers must be well versed in all areas, but most importantly understand how to teach all students and the best practices in which to do so.

What is your favorite quote related to the education field?

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." - Nelson Mandela


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