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Amy Holland

Subject Expertise: Special Education
Education: MA in Special Education from Fresno Pacific University; Mild/Moderate Special Education and Multiple Subjects Credentials from Fresno Pacific University; BA in Psychology from Whitworth University
Hometown: Danville, CA, but lives in Roseville, CA today
Home Church: Centerpoint Community Church, Roseville, CA

As a Program Specialist and prior Special Education teacher, I desire for every school campus to support inclusion and celebrate diversity. I believe in order to do so, educators must have the right tools and strategies to meet the needs of all their students.  As a part of my master’s thesis, I developed a professional development training which included defining trauma, the ACE Study, the brain’s response to trauma, effects of trauma, neuroplasticity and healing from trauma, trauma-informed schools, vicarious trauma, etc. In my course Trauma-Informed Teaching, I share trauma-sensitive strategies so that educators are better empowered to support students who have experienced trauma. My course Cultivating Emotional Resilience in Educators is designed to empower educators to acquire resilient dispositions in order to better face the many changes and challenges that occur throughout the school year.

Professional Experience: Currently a Program Specialist for Roseville City School District. Ten years of previous experience as a Resource Specialist Teacher and Special Day Class Teacher at the elementary and middle school levels.

Personal Experience: Researched related to trauma-sensitive academic strategies and the ACE Study. Conducted professional development for educators regarding supports for students who have experienced trauma. A member of the MTSS leadership team in Selma Unified and Roseville City Unified School Districts.

Scholarly Interests: Special Education, Trauma-Informed Schools, Cultivating Emotional Resilience

Recommended Reading: The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson

Favorite Bible Verse: Romans 5:3-4 ~ "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”

Favorite Music: My favorite types of music include easy listening, jazz, and oldies. I especially love live music.

Favorite Activities: Hiking, traveling, reading, spending time with family

Family Info: I have a wonderful husband and two beautiful daughters

What Matters: Maintaining my relationship with Jesus, my family, and serving my community

Pet Peeves: None

What I Like About FPU: Inclusive and welcoming campus

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