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I am currently completing my Master of Science in Special Education.  I am halfway through my second year as a special education teacher at Pine River Backus elementary school.   Prior to moving "UP NORTH", I spent seven years as a preferred teacher for ISD 728, specializing in the area of students with Emotional Behavioral Disorders.  In addition to teaching, I am a certified CPR/First Aid Instructor.   My husband and I teach live classes and operate an online CPR certification company www.newlifecpr.com.  Educating people about saving lives became a passion for both of us after witnessing the tragic death of a very close family member.

One of the reasons I decided to pursue teaching is to increase my opportunities to reach out to children in need.  For 12 years my husband and I have provided a loving home for over 100 foster children.  As a parent and foster parent, I have had the privilege of watching many of my children achieve their dreams.  I credit much of their success to their realization of the importance, and the power, of an education.  I hope to continue to instill that same realization in my own children, as well as my students.

I am married to the love of my life, Jon and a proud mother to five beautiful children: Adrianna, Bethanie, Ethan, Cody and DJ.  Adrianna is a Junior at the University of Minnesota, Morris.  Every day I feel like time is flying by WAY too fast.  It hardly seems possible that I am a mother to a 21 year old!  Fortunately, my home is filled with my other four children who keep me on my toes.  I am amazed on a daily basis at the resiliancy and optimism my children have in the face of adversity.  As a parent, I have learned as much from my children, as they have learned from me. 

After numerous experiences with foster children in the educational system, I feel that all teachers can benefit by looking through the eyes of a foster child.  This project was designed to show others a glimpse of the complex issues and losses many foster children face.  Knowing and understanding their issues and loss can improve the teacher-student relationship and help them learn to build healthy trusting relationships with adults.  

If you have any questions regarding foster care and/or CPR.  Please email me at: goteamgreene@gmail.com

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