Journey SchoolJill Birkner
Hi! My name is Jill Birkner and I am a COTA (certified occupational therapy assistant). It is my honor to work with Karla Furrow in the sensory room. She is such a talented occupational therapist and mentor to me. Right out of high school I went to Texas A&M thinking that I wanted to be a teacher but quickly changed my mind. I got married between my sophomore and junior years of college and moved to Houston. I attended University of Texas Dental Hygiene school in the medical center. I knew quickly that I had not chosen what I wanted to do with the rest of my work life.
My husband, Charles, and I have been married for 35 years and have been blessed with 4 children: Zach, Taylor, Kaili and Rylee. I was a stay-at-home mother for 17 years and loved it. When my oldest son went off to college, I began to sub for our local school district and found my passions, occupational therapy and uniquely gifted children!
When my youngest child went off to college I went back too. I attended Lone Star Occupational Therapy Assistant program. My first fieldwork session of the last semester of the program was at Journey School. I fell in love with everything about the school on the very first day I was on campus. I was thrilled when I found out that I would have an opportunity to work here. I am living proof that it is never too late for a change and you can have your dream job!
Before I end, I must mention my grandchildren! They are perfect! I have 2 grand daughters and 1 grandson. If you see me approaching with my phone in my hand run!! It’s probably pictures of one or all of them!