October's WWEA Educator Spotlight

The Wheaton Warrenville Education Association (WWEA) would like to introduce Ms. Amy Norton, a 26 year educator with 24 years experience in District 200. Ms. Norton educates 3, 4, and 5 year olds with a wide range of special education needs at our Jefferson Early Childhood Center. Her academic accomplishments include:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
• Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
• English Language Learner Endorsement from the University of St. Francis.
• currently enrolled in additional English Language Learner Endorsement courses.

Throughout the school year, Ms. Norton volunteers her time for several committees and PTA-sponsored activities. She also coordinates Veterans’ Day activities and collaborates with educators and specialists to develop curriculum and assessment measures for children with autism.

Ms. Norton knew she was destined to be an educator when she was in kindergarten. Her academic experience began with an exceptional kindergarten teacher who inspired her to appreciate education and work with children in numerous settings well into her college career. She values the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of her students and their parents throughout their academic journey.

Ms. Norton believes that being an educator is not her job, it is part of who she is as a person. She loves working with children and feels that some of her greatest accomplishments as an educator are witnessing a child’s first words, the first time they walk, and the first time they make a friend. These experiences make her feel that she played a positive role in the development of her students’ lives. Students and parents must feel the same about her because she has been nominated for the Golden Apple Award and District 200 Teaching Award. She appreciates the support and thoughtfulness from her students and their parents, and often times develops long-lasting relationships that lead her to attend high school graduations and maintain communication well after high school.

We are very lucky to have Ms. Amy Norton educating our early childhood students at Jefferson. Thank you for your positive outlook and drive to motivate students to love learning.