Joni Shouse
Hi! I am culturally Deaf and an alumnus of TSD, Class of ‘84. However, I grew up most of my life at the California School for the Deaf, Riverside (CSDR) before joining TSD. After graduating from TSD, I went to Gallaudet University (GU) and obtained my B.A. in Communication Arts. After a few years of graduating from GU, I got my M.A. in Deaf Education / ASL Specialist from McDaniel College (Western Maryland College, WMC). I became a teacher (in more ways than one) for 18 years. I started as a Substitute Teacher at Kendall Demonstration Elementary School (KDES) before my journey as a teacher began. From that moment on, my love for teaching grew as I saw how rewarding it was to watch students thrive. After obtaining my M.A., I started teaching English Language Arts and then moved on to teaching ASL for a few years before I went on hiatus for a couple of years after becoming a single mother. After my daughter entered Middle School in Maryland, I returned to teaching ASL. Now, it's a full circle, teaching English again but adding ASL to make it bilingual this time.
As for my hobbies, I enjoy spending time with my 19 years old daughter who is a proud CODA. We have similar interests: reading books, playing cards or board games, going to the movies, hiking, and visiting with friends. I love traveling but have not had the chance to do much over the years since I became a single mother to my beautiful daughter. Yep, I raised her all by myself since she was born, and I am super proud of the person she has become.
It's my second year here as an ELA Teacher. It’s always an honor to be a part of the TSD family.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
