Gracie Hansen is a Portage resident studying to become an elementary and special education teacher. She currently works at Northview Elementary School as a paraprofessional in the Applied Skills Program.
“I attended Portage High School and graduated mid-term in 2019,” Hansen said. “I then attended Ivy Tech for a semester before attending IUPUI, which is where I studied until 2021 when I moved home. This is when I had the opportunity to get my foot in the door to my career as a paraprofessional. I currently just finished my first semester at IUN in Gary.”
Ever since she was little, Hansen has had a passion for giving back to others. It was by volunteering at church and babysitting that she discovered her interest in becoming a teacher.
“In middle school and high school I peer tutored, which really pushed me to become a special education teacher,” Hansen said. “The happiness these students bring to my life on a daily basis is something I cannot explain.”
For Hansen, becoming a special education teacher is very important because of the role they play in the lives of students.
“I feel like being a teacher or special education teacher is important because it gives students an opportunity to learn and have access to the resources that they may need,” Hansen said. “I hope that when I become a teacher, I can serve as a positive role model to the students I have in my classroom, just like the teachers I had in the past.”
Along her journey, Hansen’s loved ones have served as big influences.
“My family, friends, and past teachers have always pushed me to follow my dreams and to never give up,” Hansen said. “Even on the hard days, when school gets tough, I always remember the kids I will have in the future and my family cheering me on.”
For Hansen, her mom has been the ultimate cheerleader and guide.
“If I could thank anyone, I would thank my mom – for answering all my calls and questions throughout school and giving the best advice,” said Hansen.
Additionally, Hansen said that she would like to thank her past teachers who pushed her to be the best version of herself and always believed in her, even after she graduated.
School aside, Hansen enjoys many hobbies, which include playing with her dog, enjoying time with her friends, and taking pictures for her community and of her friends and family. When it comes to health, she is passionate about running and even finished her first marathon in 2019.
When it comes to movies this time of the year, there’s no changing the channel if Elf is on – Hansen is an avid fan. However, when it’s not Christmas time, she enjoys watching the movie, “My Girl.”
Especially during these uncertain times, Hansen believes in the importance of prioritizing one’s mental health.
“I love journaling when I am stressed,” Hansen said. “It allows me to get all my thoughts out and really process my emotions. It’s also a great way to relax. It is so important to put your mental health first!”