Lompoc Vision: Special Education teacher moves 3,000 miles to support students with disabilities

by Christina Rizzo, special education teacher, Aya Education

According to the California Department of Education, one in every seven students statewide rely on special education services. As the needs of schools ebb and flow, I felt a responsibility to go where I was needed most. I decided to take a chance and try something new, so I packed my life into a single suitcase and traveled 3,000 miles from my home state of Virginia to Lompoc as a travel special education teacher.

Traveling teachers are a relatively new and specialized group. We play a vital role in giving schools the operational flexibility they need so children receive the right support as student needs shift from year to year. I’ve been an educator for 15 years, and this is my second year working in Lompoc. I could not be happier. From my very first day, I was welcomed with respect and included in staff meetings, professional development trainings and school-wide events. I truly feel valued, supported and appreciated, and I’m honored to be a member of the Lompoc Unified School District Special Education team.

As a special education teacher, I implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and provide student-centered instruction to children with disabilities, supporting their academic, fine motor and social development. Watching a younger student count to 100 independently or seeing an older student finally master a skill they’ve been working on for months is the kind of moment that brings me to tears of pure joy.

Being a traveling teacher with Aya Education has reignited my passion for the classroom and supported me personally as I enter my empty-nester era. Instead of telling my son, who’s in college, “Nothing new with me,” and coming home to an empty house, I get to share stories about the food truck I tried or the hike I went on. I’ve always loved exploring new places, and becoming an Aya travel special education teacher has allowed me to seamlessly combine my passion for teaching with my love of travel into one fulfilling career. Even before the current school year concludes, I have already confirmed my return for the 2026–2027 school year, giving the school and its families confidence that they will continue to have a highly qualified and compassionate special education teacher in place next year.

While being far from home can feel lonely at times, I have my Aya family to support me. Alexis started as my recruiter and has since become a trusted mentor and dear friend. She handles all the paperwork and logistics, allowing me to focus my full attention on what truly matters — caring for children with special needs in Lompoc.

Read the full story here (page 15).