Valeria Rivera-Perez: Finding a Path in Special Education
Valeria Rivera-Perez chose Lehigh's College of Education for a simple reason: its reputation for academic rigor and its track record of producing elite, classroom-ready educators. However, what started as a focus on secondary biology quickly evolved into a dual passion.
While working as a teacher associate at Centennial School—Lehigh’s affiliated alternative placement school for students with emotional disturbance—Valeria realized she wanted to do more.
"I'm very appreciative to the COE for being so flexible. When I arrived, I was only focused on biology, but after working at Centennial, I decided to add special education to my coursework. I was quickly able to add that and still stay on track to graduate within three years."
Real-World Experience at Centennial School
At Centennial, Valeria isn't just observing; she is an integral part of the instructional team. Her role has allowed her to bridge the gap between theory and practice through:
- Lesson Planning: Planning and implementing high school science lessons.
- IEP Contribution: Gaining firsthand experience with Individualized Education Programs.
- Classroom Management: Refining behavior management skills in a supportive environment.
- Mentorship: Working alongside lead teachers and staff who help sharpen her professional skillset.
Ready for the Future
As she nears the completion of her degree, Valeria feels the COE Advantage during her job hunt. The combination of research-based coursework and the hands-on environment of Centennial has given her a level of confidence that stands out in professional circles.
"I feel extremely prepared for interviews," she says. "Thanks to the rigorous coursework and the countless, valuable experiences I’ve received."
Life in Bethlehem
When she isn't in the classroom or studying, Valeria embraces the Lehigh Valley lifestyle. You can find her:
- Attending events at the SteelStacks.
- Enjoying the music and food at Musikfest.
- Cheering on the Lehigh Valley IronPigs at Coca-Cola Park.
Next Steps
After graduation, Valeria looks forward to entering a general education setting, where she plans to teach secondary science while utilizing her specialized training to support all learners in her classroom.
