Sonoma County Office of Education

Employee Spotlight: Tanya Mallan

03/29/2022 - Tanya Mallan

Name:
Tanya Mallan

Years at SCOE:
I am in my second year working for SCOE/SELPA, but I also worked a year about 10 years ago as a SCOE speech language pathologist.

Job Title:
Assistive Technology Specialist-Speech Language Pathologist

How do you describe your job to people outside SCOE?
I help teams support students who have complex communication needs. Those are students who are not able to communicate effectively due to some type of motor, hearing, speech challenge that interferes with their ability to use spoken language to communicate.

Where did you grow up?
Santa Rosa

Who was your favorite childhood teacher and why?
My sixth grade teacher, Mrs. Cruise, was my favorite teacher because she inspired me to love literature and learning. She made the curriculum come alive and inspired all students to embrace learning.

What is your favorite thing about SCOE?
SCOE is a supportive community. I really enjoy working with my colleagues at SELPA because there is strong support for continuing education and growth in my professional skills.

What is one of your most memorable moments as a SCOE employee?
Working with students and teams is very memorable and important to me. I love it when a team reports success with techniques or tools and to hear and see student successes.

Outside of work, what is your favorite hobby or way to unwind?
I enjoy reading, knitting and sewing along with exercise and spending time with my family.

What is your favorite place in Sonoma County?
I love Jack London State Park. It is so beautiful and combines two of my favorite things, literature and nature.

What might people be surprised to learn about you?
My favorite sport is downhill skiing.