Natalie DaveggioDaveggio
Para-Educator
 
I am very excited to begin my first full year at Woodside! I returned to California in December 2019 after a few years abroad and was happy to fill the position of middle school Paraeducator at Woodside Elementary School at the end of January 2020. Although I have an extensive background in working with students with special needs, this is the first time I have worked as a paraeducator. My transition into Woodside School was made exceptional by the amazing staff and wonderful students. I’m incredibly grateful to be part of such a welcoming and strong community.

A little more about myself…
I grew up in the central valley as the oldest of five children. Being the oldest, I learned great leadership skills and acted as a role model to my younger siblings. I attended a small private catholic school from kindergarten through high school. I played a variety of sports including volleyball, basketball, swimming, track and field, cross country, and water polo. Once I graduated high school I moved to San Luis Obispo where I attended Cuesta Junior College. I took my general ed requirements along with multiple Early Childhood Education units. I taught five years of both private and group swim lessons to children from ages 3-14 and absolutely loved it. I then transferred to California State University of Monterey Bay (CSUMB) where I earned my B.A. in Psychology. I was also able to do one year of exchange where I studied at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) in Melbourne, Australia. 

I grew up with an aunt with Down syndrome and she is one of the biggest joys in my life. She has helped me learn how to be patient and understanding. I also acquired many of my strengths from both my mother and grandmother. They each worked in special education and I spent many years volunteering in their classrooms and the Special Olympics. 

I love to travel, cook, read, run, swim, bike, hike, TEACH, and make people smile. I am looking forward to a great year. Go Wildcats!