Hello, my name is Ember Freitas, and I live in Kapolei. I am so excited to be your child's pre-k special education teacher. I was born in Austin, Texas, but I grew up in the Greater Houston area most of my life. 
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I married my Husband, Rockland Freitas, in 2016. I have two beautiful daughters, Riley, a senior at Kapolei High School, and my youngest daughter, Lily, in 5th grade at Ho'okele Elementary. I also have two amazing sons, Tucker, who is in 8th grade, and Hudson, who is in 7th grade. As a family, we like to watch movies, play games, go to the water park, and spend quality time together. We have three dogs, Nui, Teddy Bear, and Ginger. We also have two cats, Poppy and Wasabi.
 
I received my Bachelor of Science in Professional and Liberal Studies: Autism Concentration from Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia, PA, in 2016. I received my Master of Education in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education from Grand Canyon University of Phoenix, AZ, in 2019. Most recently, I completed a Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders from Grand Canyon University. I am a 2018 Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society inductee and a 2019 Delta Kappa Gamma Inductee. I was inducted into Golden Key International, Alpha Chi, and Omega Nu Lambda in the 2020-2021 school year. In addition, I hold certifications as both an Advanced Certified Autism Specialist and Board Certified Cognitive Specialist. In addition, I am on the Board of Directors for The Autism Society of Hawaii, Delta Kappa Gamma- Epsilon Chapter, and Horizons Academy of Maui.

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I first realized my passion for education, especially with exceptional learners, while navigating the special education system when my son was diagnosed with Autism. I saw a need for highly skilled and qualified teachers who believe that every child can learn no matter their abilities. I strive to be the teacher I would want my children to have.

Another exciting thing in my life is that I am a volunteer staff for Autism on the Seas. We provide cruise assistance to families of children with Autism to have the vacation of their dreams. I am an avid Disney fan and lover of The Little Mermaid. You can usually find me at Starbucks or Target... or Target with Starbucks.