Abigail Tarutis
Social Skills Teacher
Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Creative & Professional Writing, Bemidji State University; Master of Science Degree in K–12 Special Education, Bemidji State University
Abigail Tarutis started teaching in 2017 and joined Falcon View Connections Academy in 2022. She teaches social skills to students in grades K–12.
Why I Became a Teacher
When I was younger, I used to skip school to help my dad, who was a special education teacher. He would let me assist with events like the Special Olympics, prom, field trips, and reading day. I loved it. When I was 14, I visited South Africa and was fascinated by the impact the disparity of wealth had on education.
Over the last 10 years, I’ve served as a kindergarten screener, paraprofessional, and special education teacher. I’m thrilled to serve as this school’s social skills provider. My favorite part of being a teacher is connecting with students.
The Online School Experience at Falcon View Connections Academy
Being able to connect with co-workers and students in an environment in which we all feel safe is empowering and, I believe, the wave of the future.
Students here are given the tools to navigate their education. They have a world of people who want them to succeed. Ultimately, however, it’s up to each student to decide if they will succeed. They’re encouraged to tend to tasks independently—to read their lessons, attend face-to-face LiveLesson® sessions, and get their homework in. I didn’t learn to do that until I went to college.
One thing I especially love about teaching here is my co-workers. They’re a kind, but fierce bunch, and I enjoy collaborating with them. Parents thinking of enrolling their child here should ask questions. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and kind.
My Personal Interests
I love to travel, run, listen to podcasts, read, write, and spend time with my family. As a family, we do a lot of baking, watching movies (and anime), and loving-up the dogs. We live on a farm in northern Minnesota and help with our cousins’ pigs and cows and chickens. My husband is building us a house and the kids are excited to get their own rooms.
Students are our priority. If we serve them as a team—students, teachers, Learning Coaches, parents —then they win. We all win
— Ms. Tarutis