Kindergarten
Claire Winkels
cwinkels@spero.academy
612-465-8600, ex. 615
I was born in Madison, WI., in 1982. I have also lived in Columbia, Missouri, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I graduated with a BA in Political Science from the U of M, and will be finishing my Master's in Special Education this spring.
My introduction to the world of ASD and special education began eleven years ago, when I became a PCA for a family I met while working at the day-treatment program at Fraser Child and Family Center. I remain very close with the family, and see them often!
I live in Northeast Minneapolis with my son, Benjamin, who is five. We have many pets, and love animals. I enjoy reading, baking, cooking, and gardening. I spend as much time as possible outside - in the summer, that is! I do not love winter. I love to laugh, be barefoot, and spend time with my friends and my child.
This is my fourth year of teaching, and prior to that, I was an assistant in a K-2 ASD program for two years.
Teaching children with ASD and other special needs is, aside from being a mother, the great joy of my life. I feel honored to be the first teacher that this kindergarten class at Spero Academy will have, and look forward to building relationships with families and students.