Biography
Mrs. Cousin
Special Education Director
Hi everyone! My name is Danielle Cousin (I go by Dani). I love working at the Ranches Academy and getting to know all the students and families. I have had many roles here over the past 11 years from Room Mom to Substitute teacher to Classroom TA to Classroom Teacher to Special Education TA to Special Education Coordinator to now Special Education Director. I truly feel it takes a team to educate and grow minds, and believe there is power in education. I believe it not only changes minds but it changes the world. I love working with kids and seeing their faces glow as they learn a new concept.
I grew up on the East Coast, living in Connecticut till I was 13 then moving to Worcester, Massachusetts where I graduated from high school. I went to Southern Utah University for 2 years and studied a variety of things from Psychology to Special Education. I then went on a mission to Poland, which was an amazing experience. I love culture and people and diversity. After my mission, I completed my degree in History Teaching and Teaching English as a Second Language at Brigham Young University. I later got a Teaching Endorsement in Special Education. I have had the incredible opportunity to teach in some unique environments. I did my student teaching on the Island of the Republic of Kiribati (halfway between Hawaii and Australia). I taught History and Special Education at a Residential Treatment Center. I was also able to teach English as a Second Language at a English Language Center and in local community classes. In each of these places I saw the power of education and how it truly changes lives and societies.
My husband and I have lived in Eagle Mountain for 12 years now. We love it here because of the small town feel. I love seeing friends at the grocery store or gas station and spending time catching up (my kids probably don’t love it as much as I do). We have 3 fabulous children who are growing up way too fast. In my free time you will probably see me volunteering at my kids’ school or cheering them (or any other kid) on at one of their school activities. I also love to watch movies, go for walks and just hang out and talk.
Thank you for letting me be part of your student’s life (and yours). I see the great potential in each of our students. Your children amaze me daily.