Mike Rotter graduated in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Special Education. As a Chancellor’s Scholar at ILLINOIS, he participated in co-curricular experiences, including intercultural study. He also completed two cross-country bike tours with Illini 4000 to raise money for cancer research. Mike is currently a Cross-Categorical Special Education Teacher and Case Manager at Centennial High School in Champaign, Illinois. We caught up with Mike to reflect on his time at the College of Education.
Q: What do you teach?
A: I teach Cotaught Geometry, Self-Contained Geometry, and Academic Support.
Q: How long have you been in this position
A: This is my second year at Centennial
Q: How did the College of Education prepare you to succeed in your current role?
A: The College of Education allowed me to learn from some of the wisest educators I have ever met. My experiences and conversations with David Zola, Laurie Andrews, and Adam Poetzel were instrumental in my success as a special education teacher. My cooperating teacher, Emily Carter, also helped me grapple with some big-picture questions about education. Finally, my special education cohort was full of amazing students that provided constant support.
Q: What do you miss about the College of Education?
A: I miss the people. The College of Education felt like a family, and I really miss those people every day.
Q: What are your future career or educational goals?
A: My goal is always to be the teacher that my students need.
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