My name is Amanda Nelson, and, although I am a first-year teacher, I was a paraprofessional for about fifteen years. I got my start in Special Education as a senior in high school in Modesto; I had an open period in my schedule, so I signed up for the school’s Peer Assisted Learning program. I was already taking teacher-prep classes, (Growing up, I always wanted to teach 2nd grade) but something about being in that class fueled my soul. I was often called out of my other classes to help out in the SDC. As a cheerleader, I was honored when the teacher asked me to choreograph a handful of the routines that the students performed at their end of the year talent show! I was cleared to be a paraprofessional for the district the following year. I uprooted from my small town to the bay area nine years ago, where I have continued to follow my passion and further broaden my experience in the field! :)

I am so happy to be a part of the Murwood community; it really is something special! When I’m not in the classroom or researching, you can find me hanging out with Mr. Nelson and our two dogs, Brandon and Pip. We love exploring our area: trying out new restaurants, walking the trails, or reading under a tree at the park.