Hello, my name is Alicia Garwood. I am a 2025 graduate of Northern Michigan University. I majored in Special Education, with a concentration in cognitive impairment. I also minored in Secondary English Education. I am from Marquette, Michigan, and my hometown is a big part of who I am. I love being out in nature, whether that means being in the woods or on the water. This love of the outdoors extends into the classroom, where I strive to bring my students outside and engage them in hands-on experiences as often as possible. This became evident to me during my student teaching experiences at the MARESA Transition Program, and at Republic-Michigamme Schools. During this time I also got to know myself as an educator. I pride myself in bringing a positive welcoming presence to the classroom. I find that I have a strength in forming connections with students and staff, which I believe helps to create a healthy learning environment. I am excited to be working in the classroom with students and helping them to be the best versions of themselves.