Meet Joylan Furtado
Post-Secondary Institution
Western Michigan University
Certification
Special Education
District
Garden City Public Schools
Professional Background
Computer programing & information technology | Paraprofessional
From working in information technology to serving as a paraeducator, Joylan is now a graduate prepared to lead a classroom of his own.
Born in India, Joylan came to the United States at age 26 to work as a contract programmer in Clearwater, Florida. In 2002, he moved to Michigan and built a career in information technology. But in 2015, his path took a new direction—he began working in various roles within Michigan’s school system. Today, Joylan is a proud graduate, prepared to lead a classroom of his own and inspire the next generation of learners.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
Since I was young, I’ve always enjoyed guiding others—whether it was explaining how to play a game or organizing a team. That instinct to teach and lead has always been part of me, and it never really went away. In the corporate world, working as an IT consultant, I often found myself isolated—just writing code, testing programs, and creating documentation alone in a cubicle. There was very little human interaction, and it felt like people didn’t really want to engage.
In teaching, it’s the complete opposite. There’s constant collaboration—whether with students, fellow teachers, or the school community. It’s a dynamic and meaningful environment. I also believe that being a teacher makes you sharper—it challenges you to grow wiser, become more knowledgeable, and stay curious. That’s what truly inspired me to make the change.
How did you first hear about Talent Together?
When working as a paraprofessional my school superintendent sent an email out encouraging us to apply. I was interested and immediately applied!
How was your journey to teacher certification?
In my early academic career, I realized the importance of staying focused and getting things done without allowing them to linger or cause delays. I really like to always strive to stay on track. At first, it was a little overwhelming, but I had a great academic advisor at Western Michigan University who gave me the confidence boost I needed to believe it could be done and that I just needed to keep working. I’m grateful to her for helping keep me on track.
How did the apprenticeship experience prepare you for a classroom of your own?
I really look up to the other teachers in my school. I know that if they can do it, I can too. These teachers are my role models. It’s been valuable to work with individuals who have different approaches and ideas, and I’ve learned how to adapt and collaborate effectively with them.