Prior to coming to NIU, she was a high school teacher in an at-risk program, K-1 educator in a beginning communication development program, preschool diagnostician, and an Instructional Assistant Professor in the Department of Special Education at Illinois State University. Dr. DeSpain currently teaches coursework in early childhood special education related to assessment, methods, and collaborating with families; although she has also taught coursework in transition. Her research interests include methods for preparing educators to meet the diverse needs of children with special needs, preparing families to meet the needs of children with disabilities, and promoting engagement of learners with Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) in inclusive settings.