Special education teacher Alyson Fulwiler originally planned to pursue a career in genetics but an unconventional path led her to Glacier Creek Middle School.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in human biology at University of Wisconsin-Green Bay in 2020, Fulwiler worked as a microbiologist in a food safety lab testing cheese. She realized a career in science was not for her.
Reflecting on what kinds of work she found fulfilling, she kept coming back to a job she had in high school and college facilitating activities at a nursing home: “I loved the hands-on nature of that role and felt deeply fulfilled by the relationships I built there.”
Fulwiler’s career path was also shaped by her personal connection to supporting people with disabilities.
“My older brother, Austin, was diagnosed with autism and Pallister-Killian Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder,” Fulwiler said. “Growing up alongside him and witnessing the challenges he faced – as well as the areas where more care and attention were needed – deeply shaped me.”
She decided to combine her love of relationship-building with her drive to support people with disabilities and completed her master’s in special education at University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Fulwiler completed her practicum last fall at Glacier Greek Middle School teaching seventh graders. In August, she was among 80 new teachers and staff that MCPASD welcomed during the New Educator Induction event at Kromrey Middle School.
She now teaches eighth graders at Glacier Greek Middle School.
“Middle schoolers are at such a unique and formative stage of life,” Fulwiler said. “You can be playful and sarcastic with them, share a good laugh, and at the same time, they still seek guidance and truly value your support.”
Fulwiler is excited to watch her students grow academically and personally this year.
“I’m also looking forward to building strong, meaningful relationships with students and strengthening connections with the wonderful staff at Glacier Creek,” she said. “What I love most about the Glacier Creek community is how incredibly supportive everyone is.”
Fulwiler appreciates how “everyone looks out for one another” at Glacier Creek Middle School.
“As a first-year teacher, I know I have a lot to learn, and asking for help can sometimes feel intimidating,” Fulwiler said. “But so many people have checked in on me and offered support before I even had the chance to ask.”
Fulwiler added: “Special education just felt like the perfect fit, and I couldn’t be happier to have found my way here.”
Check out a short video of Fulwiler talking about the school year and her Amazon wishlist for those interested in supporting her work.