Our Teachers
All of our teachers at Villa Maria School are state-certified in special education. They are professionals – knowledgeable, compassionate, patient, and sensitive to the various learning styles of our students. They challenge students, emphasizing the mastery of reading, writing and mathematics skills, but they also provide a nurturing, supportive environment in which students can learn and succeed.
Teacher SpotlighT
Name: Amy Pelletier
College: Nichols College
Graduate School: Southern Connecticut State University 
Majors: Psychology, Special Education with a masters in Autism
Hobbies: Playing sports, skiing, spending time with my family and friends
Grade and subject they teach: 5th Grade Language and Writing
Ways I make a difference and break through to students: By understanding each individual student's needs. Also, by using different teaching techniques for the many different learning styles.
Each student is different and has his or her own individual needs. I like to get to know my students not only inside the classroom, but their outside interests as well. I believe that the most effective way for students to learn is by drawing on what they already know and building on that. Getting to know what they enjoy doing and incorporating that into their work really motivates them. I enjoy letting the children get to know me as well. It is important for them to feel comfortable in the classroom and to know that we are all human. I plan around each child's needs and disabilities while focusing on the positives. I teach children by using many different and multisensory techniques. I think the best way to learn is through a sequence of hearing, seeing, and doing. My job as a special education teacher is to help children with disabilities succeed in and outside of the classroom. Building their confidence is so important for their future endeavors. I meet the individual needs of students by gaining an understanding of how they learn and modifying instruction to match their learning styles. This is how I help them break through and achieve the most success possible.
Every day is a success when I can make learning fun and see the children really understanding their work and being happy with themselves. Watching their confidence grow is a success in itself.
I have been fortunate enough to move to the 5th grade with my 4th graders from last year in order to continue their education from where we left off. Since the beginning of fourth grade my students have grown so much and become more successful in their education. Before, some of my students had trouble following my directions in writing down a particular sentence. Today they are writing full paragraphs independently. I have watched my students grow in many ways. Perhaps the best way to see it is in their confidence. Helping children succeed in life and helping their strengths shine through really gives students a sense of self worth that they in turn want to share with the world. I have worked with many students who have difficulty in school because they simply learn differently. To be able to modify schoolwork to help my students become successful has been the most rewarding and educational job. I love that I am able to say that I learn everyday from my students. I am teaching them, and they are teaching me.
I have been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn, grow, and work in such a positive environment. The teachers, staff, and students are all amazing people who care so much for each other and help to make work a joy.