Meet A Mom — Education Specialist —
Rebecca Motherspaw, M.S., BCBA
Becky Motherspaw is an extraordinary teacher! As an Education Specialist, she guides her students with self-assurance, compassion and soft, but effective, discipline. But most of all, Mrs. M showers her class kids with love. And it’s a testament to her teaching style that her students reciprocate
with their own special adoration of her.
Afterschool stories abound (from students to parents) with descriptive reports of how Mrs. M spoke kind words about a concern; gave a hug to ease an upset; raised a high-five for a job well done; or shared a dance to celebrate a milestone or a simple moment of fun on the playground! Both kids and parents appreciate her obvious love of teaching and her passion. I should know;
I’m one of those parents!
Thank you, Becky, for offering our moms and readers a glimpse of what makes your classroom
Mrs. M’s place!
“Watching my students make progress – superseding others’ expectations – is the fuel to what I do daily.”
How many children do you have, and what are their ages?
I have one son, Dylan. He is a little over one and a half.
Which area of North County do you call home? How long have you lived here?
I consider most of North County my home. I currently live in the San Marcos/Carlsbad area. I was born and raised in Solana Beach, so North County is my true hometown.
What do you love about living in North County?
I enjoy the quick drive to the beach, the view of the snowcapped mountains in the winter, the weather and the endless number of activities that are available on any given weekend.
What’s your favorite part of North County? Tell us why, and clue us in on your favorite mom-and-child activities and places to visit.
I love that I can cross into any town in only a few miles. I feel closely connected to Oceanside, Vista, Poway, Encinitas, Del Mar, Solana Beach, etc. I enjoy going to my local My Gym in Vista, walking through Leo Carrillo Ranch and scouting for the peacocks. I also love trying out new parks. Currently, Poinsettia is a favorite.
“Ragz, in Carlsbad, is a cute boutique!”
What’s your favorite restaurant in North County?
This is a hard one, but during weekday hours it would be Prontos’ Gourmet Market in Carlsbad Village.
What are your favorite items on Prontos’ menu?
At Prontos’, you can grab a sandwich or salad, or pick up ravioli, marina sauce and meatballs. They also have an amazing selection of ready-to-go lunch and dinner items but of course, their cookies and desserts [amaze, too]!.
What is it about Prontos’ Gourmet Market that makes you a repeat customer?
Honestly, the ingredients are authentic, and [their sweet treats] just melt in your mouth. It is all cooked and baked with love!
So, you’ve told us about your preferred, go-to restaurant in North County. Now we’d like to hear about your favorite boutique. Tell us what it is and why you love it!
My favorite place to shop would also be in Carlsbad Village! There are some beautiful locally-owned shops. Ragz, in Carlsbad, is a cute boutique and the clerks will help you find an entire outfit depending on your style and needs! You also can’t beat the Forum for shopping and a bite to eat!
“Every student needs a slightly different approach ~
I love how this challenges me daily!”
Mrs. M with an adoring student, Costa (aka, my son)!
Tell us about your career as the Education Specialist at Olivenhain Pioneer Elementary (OPE).
I am an Education Specialist with a Mild/Moderate credential at Encinitas Unified. I specifically teach grades 4th– 6th
Describe your position and why you chose a career in special education.
I teach a special day class for students with a variety of disabilities and needs. I chose this career for many reasons, but to sum it up, it drives me. Watching my students make progress, work through the rough patches and come out the other end, superseding others’ expectations, is the fuel to what I do daily.
Mrs. M’s classroom walls are decorated with visual support, student art & positive affirmations.
How many aides do you oversee?
I manage a staff of five within my classroom.
What do you love about your job?
I love many aspects of my job, but first and foremost I enjoy watching my students learn. Every student needs a slightly different approach, and I love how this challenges me daily! I also enjoy my team. They quickly became part of my family.
The dance-thing? Yes, it’s true! Mrs. M rocks a playground prance!
Do you have any hobbies? If so, tell us about them!
After becoming a parent, my hobbies fell to the wayside, but I am making a conscious effort to enjoy my hobbies now. I love to dance. I have been going to a dance class every other week, or so, and it has been incredible! I love to walk, eat out with my family, spend time with family and friends and explore San Diego with my little one!
How do you juggle work and motherhood?
I just do it! My husband is a huge support. I am constantly shocked that even when I add more to my plate, I still find time to sleep! Being conscious of my hobbies and finding time for myself has been extremely helpful to balance work and being a mom.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
It is okay to walk away from them for a minute, especially if you need a minute to compose yourself. – A mom
Maria Felicia Kelley recently spoke with Becky Motherspaw
to showcase another North County standout in this third TNCMs’ Meet-a-Mom series interview!
