Q: How long have you been an Ukeru trainer?

A: 2 years

Q: What population do you work with? What inspired you to get into this field? 

A: I started as a special education teacher over 20 years ago and now continue to serve special education students and families as a district administrator.

Q: What part of Ukeru do you enjoy teaching the most and why?  

A: I love teaching about the science of the brain and how we can use that information to better understand behavior. When we understand the behavior, it helps people take their own emotions and judgment out of their response. 

Q: What would you say to someone who is unsure about using Ukeru? 

A: It’s not all about the pads. Ukeru is about understanding trauma, the brain, behavior and how it all ties together. The pads are there to keep people safe.

Q: What advice or tip would you give to a new Ukeru trainer? 

A: Connect real life examples to the information so that it sticks for participants. 

Q: How has Ukeru impacted your life? 

A: I wish that I had been Ukeru trained when I was a teacher. As a district leader, I’m determined to help our district respond to behaviors with a more trauma info approach.

Q: What is your favorite quote or a motto that you like to live by? 

A: Be like a tree: stay grounded, bend before you break, be willing to change with the seasons and keep growing!

Q: What three words would you use to describe Ukeru?

A: Responsive, Impactful, Proactive