Learn more about Angela Gonzalez, a student in the Education Policy and Leadership (EPoL) program

"After being in public education for almost twenty years, I saw an opportunity to create policy that is better applicable to what is happening in classrooms today." – Angela Gonzalez 

Meet Angela Gonzalez, current Education Policy and Leadership (EPoL) master’s student. After almost two decades working in special education, Angela joined the EPoL program to create policy that will address the real needs of students and educators today and improve the lives of children in the k-12 system. 

Hometown: Eugene, OR 

What is your education/career background? I have a Master’s in Early Intervention / Early Childhood Special Education. I have been teaching Special Education K-12 for about 18 years.

Why did you choose the EPoL program? 

I chose the Education Policy and Leadership program because, After being in public education for almost 20 years, I saw an opportunity to create policy that is better applicable to what is happening in classrooms today. 

I am a graduate of the University of Oregon, and I know the quality of education is top notch. 

How has the cohort model enhanced your student experience? 

I love how supportive we are of each other. There was a moment in one of our classes when we all realized there wasn’t competition among us. We were there to help each other. 

What are your career aspirations? 

My focus is what can I do to leave a permanent mark in K-12 education that improves the lives of children in their communities. 

What has been your favorite class so far and why? 

I’ve only been a part of the program for a quarter. My favorite class so far has been Education Policy and Leadership Seminar. We learned about how policy is created and the factors that impact if a policy moves forward or not. I am looking forward to the US education policy analysis class this spring to take my learning further.