This week’s Alumni Update features Special Ed teacher and RMA Graduate of the Class of 2007, Ashley Foster Schauer. After graduating from UNC-Wilmington with a degree in Special Education and a minor in Psychology, Ashley became a teacher at Codington Elementary in a self contained Special Education classroom. Ashley just recently received the Teacher of the Year award for 2017-2018 at her school as a result of her hard work and dedication. This past spring of 2016, Ashley began to pursue her masters at UNC- Wilmington and will graduate this December 2017, with a degree in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Advocacy for Early Childhood. To help supplement her passion to advocate for the teaching profession, Ashley is the Vice President of the Honor’s Society Kappa Delta Pi at UNC-Wilmington. According to her friend, Rachel Hayworth, a RMA Graduate of the Class of 2008, “Rachel is a perfect example of someone who may have taken a bit longer to discover her passion and professional talents but is someone who is working very hard to make a difference in her community, specifically among those affected by special educational and developmental needs.”

Aside from Ashley’s school work and career, Ashley has a loving family that consists of her husband, Billy, and dog, Stoli. She enjoys going to the beach and hanging out with her family and friends.

To learn more about Ashley, read her interview questions below!

1) What/Who made you want to pursue a career in Special Education?

Education in general would be my fifth grade teacher, Mrs. Wade. I still keep in contact with her- she was actually at my wedding! 🙂 Special Education would be my advisor/mentor/professor, Dr. Mechling.

2) What are some of your hobbies?

Hanging out with my husband, driving on the beach, shopping, and hanging with friends.

3) What are your plans after you earn your Masters at UNCW?

I plan to go back for my doctorate in Special Education.

4) As a teacher, it is your job to teach others. However, what important lessons have your kids taught you?

They have taught me the true meaning of love and acceptance. Every single day is different in my classroom, but that’s what makes it so great.

5) What brought you to UNCW?

The beach of course!!!

6) Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Professor at UNCW with babies 😉

7) Have you had any memorable trips abroad?

My husband and I are about to take a 13 day trip to Ireland!!!!

8) What is your favorite show on Netflix?

Hulu, but This is Us is my jam! I also love Nashville.

9) What is something not everyone knows about you?

I hate roller coasters and heights.

10) In what ways did RMA prepare you for life post graduation?

Honestly, it helped me get my head straight. I wasn’t serious about school to begin with. I liked hanging out too much and loved to talk.. Some teachers will tell you that! But I gained amazing friendships and still continue those friendships 10 years later.