Special Discoveries Educational Services, Inc.
About Us
Jackie Peebles
My name is Jacquelynn Peebles MA. Ed, and I am the owner of Special Discoveries Educational Services, Inc. My business is located in Lake Arrowhead California, and it was established in 2002. This is where most of our center based programs are conducted.
The major focus of my business is to work with children who are at risk for developmental delays. This also includes becoming their educational advocate that help clients understand the often confusing world of Special Education in our schools. There are programs for the families with preschool children who want help in getting their children ready for their formal school experience. These programs are offered in English and Spanish. I am also an Early Intervention Specialist that provides in-home services to families with children who were born with developmental challenges.
I started this business after receiving injuries from a child with autism. This child was never blamed, and never will be, he just had a bad day. After trying to continue teaching for the district that I was employed by, I was released from my job because after the four surgeries that had to be done, I could no longer fulfill the 50 lb lifting requirements necessary to teach in a special education classroom. My dreams were almost shattered but in my heart I knew that God had another plan for me.
I received my Bachelors of Science degree in Physical Education in 1978 from Pacific Union College and received my Masters in Education with the emphasis in Special Education from California State University San Bernardino in 1996. I hold my teaching credential from the State of California in Physical Education and Special Education. I also received a certificate to teach Medically Fragile Infants from the University of Colorado. I was a mentor teacher for two years for San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, for new teachers in the field of Special Education. I also received the Teacher of the Year award for the Desert Mountain Division in 2000.
The door opened for me to be the educational consultant and service provider for many families. The children on the autism spectrum have been a big part of my business and I continue to receive training on how to better serve this growing population. Many children have been served through the various programs that we offer and have had many educational successes both at home and in the schools. My goal is to keep each child learning. I see children having the ability to learn, even if it takes many different techniques and approaches to help them reach their fullest potential!
Luvia Rodriguez
My name is Luvia Rodriguez, I am a credentialed elementary school teacher from Guatemala, Central America, and I also have some studies in Chemical Engineering.
At first, I decided to become a teacher because my father was a school principal for long time, and it was the best option for me at that moment. Then as I started teaching, I realized the big responsibility I had in my hands with the children I was teaching and with their families, so my profession became one of my passions. My first class was in a very poor community in Guatemala, a 2nd-3rd grade combination class with a total of 60 children. It was a challenge, but I enjoyed every moment I was there and learned that as a teacher I can make a difference, and thats a trait that I try to pass on to every child that I have the chance to work with. Another of my challenges was to teach adults how to read and write.
My family and I moved to Lake Arrowhead in 1990. In 1995 I started working for the local school district helping the ELL students, kindergarten sixth grade. As time passed on, teaching and helping children wasnt enough for me, so I decided to start helping not just the children but their families too, and I left the school district and started working for a community organization. While working with the community, I became a domestic violence counselor, a parent educator and tried to learn new things as challenges came my way.
Some of my accomplishments: 2001 I was awarded with a certificate of recognition by the San Bernardino County Superintendent, for my contribution and commitment to the academics excellence of ELL students.
On 2003 I was awarded with a certificate of recognition by California State Senate, San Bernardino Board of Supervisors and California Legislature Assembly for Advancing the Status of Women.
On September 2004, I started working for Special Discoveries. I am very happy working with Jackie because she shares the same passion I have, helping children and their families.
I strongly believe that every child has the potential to be successful in their unique way, and that depends on the resources, attention and support that we as adults can provide.
My biggest rewards in life are my two children, who I love with all my heart.
Remember, "Success is a journey, not a destination." Ben Sweetland
Christine Reeves
My name is Christine Reeves. I work at Special Discoveries as an educator. I currently work with children from ages 0 to 3 years old. I began my journey at Special Discoveries in 2007 as a preschool aid. I live in Lake Arrowhead, California.
My interest and involvement with Special Discoveries started when my son, Benjamin, was diagnosed with autism. The challenges associated with this disorder were overwhelming to both my husband and me. We immediately began searching for help. Somehow, by the grace of God, we were introduced to Jacquelynn Peebles. Jackie saved our lives when she became our Early Intervention Specialist and our Advocate. Jackie helped us make important decisions concerning Benjamin's education and therapy and Benjamin has blossomed in response. Jackie has been right by our side as a true support in the confusing world of autism regardless of what new situation we were faced with.
Jackies actions struck a chord and I decided that I wanted to work with Special Discoveries to support other families with special needs children. My venture into this field was an eye-opening experience and soon realized that I was destined for this kind of work. My heart was filled with the joy of being of service to these children. My work as a Preschool Aid highlighted my talent for education through socialization with infants and young children. Having already earned my AA degree, I enthusiastically took on the further education requirements for a 0 to 3 year old educator. I have extensive experience working with children through my church in addition to the experience that I have gained through Special Discoveries. I am looking forward to a rewarding future with the Head Start program at Special Discoveries.
