Position:
Assistant Professor, Special and Gifted EducationPronouns:
she/herLocation:
Bowman 120Phone:
(540) 545-7282Email: mhartman@jdzruiran.com
Educational History:
B.S., Kutztown University; M. Ed., George Mason University; Ed. S., George Washington University; Ed.D. ,George Washington University
Fields of Expertise:
Transition, disabilities, curriculum/methods, assessment, legal issues.
Professional Highlights:
I spent 35 years in public education as a special education teacher working with the following disabilities: autism, learning disabilities, emotional disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and other health impairments. I have worked in self-contained and co-taught settings. I have been a teacher (first and always), department chair, special education supervisor, and an assistant director of special education. Teaching is my life’s work. It’s who I am. I have a passion for working with people on the autism spectrum and helping people with disabilities transition to life after high school. I believe relationships are the key to a well run classroom.
Research:
I have conducted research and published articles on discipline, creating a community-based transition program, and I have published a textbook: Foundations of Special Education: Transcending Barriers (2024).
Personal Quote:Teaching is about building relationships.”
Personal Highlights:
My interests include spending time with my family, friends, and dogs. I sing with an acapella chorus, and I love to read and hang out by the pool. I also love to travel and learn new things.