By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
Coming from a family of teachers helped shape Erica Boardman’s career path and fueled her passion for helping others.
“Many members of my family are teachers, which sparked my early interest in education,” Boardman said.
After high school, Boardman followed her dream by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education with a certification in mathematics. She then spent three years teaching algebra at the high school level.
While she enjoyed her experience, Boardman kept thinking about the time she spent working as a paraprofessional in a special education classroom right after graduation.
“I witnessed firsthand how proper guidance and tailored teaching strategies could transform students' educational experiences,” Boardman said. “I saw students flourish, gain confidence, and develop crucial life skills. These moments solidified my commitment to special education.”
Once she made the decision to pivot her teaching focus, Boardman began researching college certification programs.
“I took the leap and chose Rio Salado College because of the flexibility of online classes and the convenient start dates,” Boardman said.
In 2024, she enrolled in Rio’s Teacher-in-Residence (TIR) program for certification in Special Education Mild-Moderate K-12.
The TIR program is for students who already have a bachelor’s degree and receive employment in a classroom while simultaneously completing their education coursework toward certification.
To help offset program costs, Boardman applied for scholarships, and was one of two students to receive a 2025 National Association of Community College Teacher Education Programs (NACCTEP) scholarship.
“I am truly grateful and honored to receive the NACCTEP scholarship, especially knowing that only two recipients were selected,” Boardman said. “This scholarship eases the financial burden of returning to school and allows me to dedicate more time and energy to my professional growth and the success of my students.”
The success of her students is a top priority for Boardman, as witnessed by comments from evaluator Krista Rowley, a prior Rio Salado graduate, in a letter of recommendation for the scholarship application.
“Erica is results oriented and keeps her eye on the target of helping her students to grow and achieve. She is not afraid to bring in lessons that utilize the students’ many senses helping to further refine their learning. She is not just focused on academics, but focused on the whole child.”
Boardman is currently in her second semester year of the TIR program, and works with 9-12th grade students at Campo Verde High School in Gilbert. She is on track to complete her certification this fall.
“My career aspiration is to become a special education teacher in a specialized learning environment such as a self-contained program,” Boardman said. “I consider myself a lifelong learner and will always find ways to learn and grow.”
Boardman is looking forward to the future where she can help make a difference in her students’ lives.
“My goal is not only to teach but to inspire, to empower my students to believe in themselves and their abilities,” Boardman said. “Special education is not just about teaching academic content—it’s about meeting students where they are and supporting their growth in all areas of their lives.”