SESI and Arizona State University Special Education Alliance

Educator Spotlight: Jazmine Czubatiuk, High Road School of the South Suburbs

Jazmine Czubatiuk didn’t plan on a career in education, but she quickly found her footing once she stepped into the classroom.

Finding a Path Into Special Education

Czubatiuk joined High Road School of the South Suburbs as a paraprofessional in November 2025. After having her daughter earlier that year, she decided to leave waitressing and pursue a new career. She earned an emergency paraprofessional license and began substitute teaching in her son’s school district before joining the team at High Road School of the South Suburbs.

“I never thought that I wanted to be a teacher or work in a school, but then once I started, I instantly fell in love with it and the kids,” she said. “Being their safe space and someone that they could trust – I feel like I was probably just meant to do this.”

Growing Through the Special Education Alliance

In August 2026, Czubatiuk enrolled in the ASU Special Education Alliance program through SESI’s partnership with Arizona State University’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. She recently switched to ASU’s new three-year Bachelor of Education in Special Education program. With 10 credits completed and courses offered in accelerated 7.5-week sessions, she is on track to earn her degree in two and a half years.

Balancing full-time work, coursework, and raising two children requires careful planning, but Czubatiuk has found a routine that works.

“Usually when my kids go to sleep, I will stay up and do it,” Czubatiuk said. “If we have downtime at work, like if the kids are going to PE and there’s enough staff, I’ll stay back and look up something. I just kind of make it work or I’ll do it on the weekends.”

Applying Coursework in the Classroom

She is already finding ways to apply what she learns in her courses to her work with students. While taking classes on special education history, laws, and classroom resources, Czubatiuk supports students in the school’s Spark program, which focuses on helping students manage their behavioral and emotional needs.

“I want to be like that consistent person for them,” Czubatiuk said. “After having kids, it really just changed my outlook on everything for sure.”

Working with students in small groups and one-on-one has also given her opportunities to build strong relationships and see their progress firsthand.

“All of them in the class, they’re all just super cute,” Czubatiuk said. “They’re really managing their emotions really good in here this school year.”

Support From the High Road School Community

Czubatiuk credits her team at High Road School of the South Suburbs for keeping her motivated. Director Chelsi Owsley introduced her to the ASU program and offers ongoing support, while teachers Ms. Ellen and Ms. Melissa provide support in the classroom.

Preparing for a Career in Special Education

Once she earns her degree and teaching credential, Czubatiuk hopes to lead a special education classroom of her own. For other SESI staff considering the ASU program, she encourages them to go for it.

“I thought it was going to be impossible, juggling work and full-time online school with the kids,” Czubatiuk said. “But really, with time management and just having a good head on your shoulders and having a goal at the end of it, I feel like you could easily finish it.”

About the SESI and ASU Special Education Alliance

Through SESI’s alliance with ASU’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, eligible employees in good standing with a high school diploma, GED or some college experience can earn a bachelor’s degree and teaching credential with discounted tuition, tuition reimbursement or federal grant funding. SESI educators interested in the program can contact their school director for details.