Manar Karaja, Student Services Administrator

I was born and raised in Jordan and moved to the United States 26 years ago. I have two boys, ages 25 and 23, and a 19-year-old girl. My bachelor’s and first master’s degrees are in English Language and Literature and in Linguistics. After being a stay-at- home mom for 10 years, I discovered a love for teaching and decided to get a master’s in special education to help students with special needs reach their full potential and overcome their weaknesses just like my son did. My first job was a preschool small group teacher at East Side for 6 years. I worked for 3 more  years as a teacher before becoming a program support specialist for 2 years. I received an Educational Leadership Certification this summer, and this is my first year as an SSA. As a SSA, my goal is to share my experience, to learn from others, and to assist in providing support to students with special needs. I enjoy reading, walking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.