Xarfie Sangalang Salvosa, CAS

City/State: El Paso, Texas

School/Organizations: Whitaker Elementary (El Paso ISD), Ministry for Families and Individuals with Disabilities, El Paso Federation of Teachers and Support Personnel

1) How has earning the Certified Autism Specialist been meaningful and satisfying?

Being certified as an Autism Specialist has given me confidence. To know that my 17 years of hard work in this field has paid off, and has been recognized.

2) How has the CAS credential affected your professional growth? 

The CAS credential has boosted my morale and has pushed me to learn more in my field.

3) How has your CAS credential been a benefit to your district/ organization/ or employer?

It shows that our school district has highly qualified teachers and it also ensures that the children have the best possible education and teachers available to them.

4) How do you like to be recognized, acknowledged and rewarded for a job well done?

The satisfaction and trust of the students’ parents, as well as, and most importantly, seeing the progress the kids make. It is the best possible reward any teacher can receive.

5) What is your greatest challenge or roadblock?

My greatest challenge is looking for new ways and techniques that will allow me to help my kids’ continuously changing needs.

6) What makes you feel like a valuable contributor?

When others acknowledge my input as being helpful or insightful, I feel like my contribution has been of value to the discussion.

7) What do you enjoy most about your job?

My kids. They never fail to amaze me. They learn and show every day.

8) What support, tools/resources, skills or empowerment do you need to be more effective?

Parents’ support and trust. Also important is keeping with the latest information/networking about Autism.
The student’s families are the greatest resource I have.

9) What strengths or talents do you possess that are not being used?

I make sure I utilize all of my strengths and talents to benefit my kids. /r/.