Expertise:
Ms. Alisesky's expertise includes special education and early childhood development.
Major Product/SVS:
Special Education for Children Between the Ages of Three and Five
Hobbies/Sports:
Walking, Traveling, Reading
Education Degrees:
Bachelor's Degree in Special Education, California University of Pennsylvania (1985)
Affiliations Awards:
National Center for Research Resources; Regional Board, Disciple in Christ, PA
Industry:
Special Education
Date of Distinction:
8/5/2009
Work History:
Personal Care Aide for Class (United Cerebral Palsy), Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (2005-Present); Special Education Teacher, Early Childhood for Intermediate Unit 1, Coal Center, PA 15423 (1987-2007); Teacher Aide for Intermediate Unit 1, Coal Center, PA 15423 (1975-1987); Night Supervision, Guild for the Blind, Bridgeville, PA 15017 (1972-1974)
What do you feel separates you from the rest of the professionals in your industry?:
Ms. Alisesky believes that having a child with special needs separates her from other professionals in her field because it gives her an insight into the families and children she works with. Working together toward a common goal, understanding the power of emotions and realizing that the family is the first and last teacher a child will have all help to contribute to her ability to help others. Ms. Alisesky believes that it is a long journey if one does it alone, so she tries to be there by caring for others.
What has been the most outstanding thing you have done thus far in your career?:
Learning that we are more alike than we are different.
Throughout the duration of your career, what was the one highlight that stood out the most?:
The most gratifying aspect of her career is to watch her children achieve and learn from them.
Charity:
United Cerebral Palsy; Easter Seals; March of Dimes Foundation; Veterans of Foreign Wars; American Association for Cancer Research; Canine Companions for Independence, Inc.
What Does He/She Attribute Success To:
She attributes her success to her education, determination and achievements.
Why did you become involved in your profession or industry?:
She became involved in her profession through the inspiration she received from her daughter, a child with special needs.
Extended Bio Profile:
Ms. Alisesky quotes Leigh Ann Lightholder when asked about her personal philosophy: 'I have cerebral palsy, but cerebral palsy doesn't have me.' Ms. Alisesky uses the quote to motivate others. Her doctors told her parents that she would lie in bed for the rest of her life; she, however, proved them wrong. She is an independent woman who has been living in her own apartment for 20 years, and is still going strong. She has a voice, but uses a communication device to speak when others cannot understand her patterns of speech. Every day she likes to be positive and hopes to inspire others to reach for their dreams. She also has 25 years of experience with the Intermediate Unit 1.
Position Responsibilities and Duties:
Teaching Special Education, Promoting Early Childhood Development, Aiding Physically Challenged Individuals with Daily Living Activities
Awards/Honors:
Woman of the Year, Christian Women's Fellowship (1988)