Karen ElyHead of School
My educational background:

My journey in education has been shaped by a deep commitment to meeting students where they are and helping them grow into their full potential. I earned my B.S. in Special Education from Cleveland State University and later completed my M.A. in Special Education at Fairfield University. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working in special education resource rooms across Ohio, Connecticut, and North Carolina, supporting students with autism, learning disabilities, and behavioral challenges.  In South Carolina, I expanded my work as an early interventionist, partnering with families to support children from birth to age five with special needs. Most recently, I served as the Exceptional Children (EC) Teacher and Student Support Director at a school for gifted students.  This  role allowed me to blend my passion for individualized support with the unique needs of high-ability learners. During that time, I also earned certification in Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) education.

My certifications:

I am certified in Special Education Cross Categorical K-12 and AIG certified.  Trained in Orton Gillingham and The Barton Reading and Spelling System

My social/emotional trainings:

I have received training in the Second Step program and have continued to grow professionally through seminars led by experts such as Dr. Matt Zakreski and Dr. Brian Housand. My ongoing professional development includes training in mindfulness practices and strategies for integrating movement with learning to support student engagement. I have also used bibliotherapy as a powerful tool to help twice-exceptional students better understand themselves and navigate their unique strengths and challenges.

My favorite teacher from my past:

Dr. Baxter  He was my human physiology teacher in high school and he made everything relevant.  We understood why we were doing what we were doing.  I still keep in touch with him.

What do I love about Epiphany?

What I love most about Epiphany is that we truly see the value in every student. There’s a deep commitment here to nurturing not just academic growth, but the social and emotional skills that are often even more important in life. I love that our staff prioritizes building strong, meaningful relationships with students because connection comes first. I am proud to be part of a school that consistently asks, “What’s best for the student?” before making any decision.

How does teaching and working with children inspire me?

Teaching and working with children inspires me because it gives me a sense of purpose and possibility. Children see the world without limits.  Being around that kind of energy reminds me that learning and growth are constant, no matter your age. Their curiosity challenges me to think creatively, their honesty keeps me grounded, and their growth connects me to my purpose. Children show me all that is good and wonderful in this world.  The unexpected and the joy that children bring to me everyday makes me a better, more aware version of myself.

My spirit animal:

Elephant

My favorite movie:

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner

My favorite board game:

Spot it, not really a board game but I win almost every time

My favorite book:

Our Tree Named Steve by Alan Zweibel, illustrated by David Catrow.

My favorite character, cartoon, or superhero:

Eeyore, he embodies being accepted for who you are even on your gloomiest day.

My Interests and hobbies:

I love to read and spend time with my dogs.  They are  my constant companions and a source of comfort and joy. My kids and I also foster dogs, which has brought so much love and a fair amount of fur into our lives. Our home may be a little messy, but it’s always full of heart, wagging tails, and second chances.

My origins, travels and/or adventures:

I attended high school in Heidelberg, Germany which was an experience that left a lasting impression and made it one of my favorite places in the world. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to travel to Alaska, Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe before the fall of the Berlin Wall. Traveling has always been a source of joy for me.

My favorite thing to do, place to go, or eatery in Charlotte:

Burton’s….they have a huge gluten free menu!

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