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Throughout her career, McPeek has sought creative solutions to meet student needs. She learned to use early Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices and partnered with retired Bell Telephone company employees to create custom switches when technology was still developing. To reduce disruptions for students, she took welding and soldering classes at Diablo Valley College so she could repair devices herself and train classroom aides to do the same.
McPeek also worked to remove barriers beyond the classroom. When transportation limitations prevented field trips, she obtained a bus driver’s license so her students could participate. One of her most memorable experiences was leading an overnight camping trip at Golden Gate National Recreation Area (Federal park located under the Golden Gate Bridge) with students, aides, a nurse, families, and park rangers, reflecting her belief that students with disabilities deserve the same enriching experiences as their peers.
Her commitment to lifelong learning led her to earn a Multiple Subject teaching credential along with credentials in Learning Handicapped, Severely Handicapped, Resource Specialist, Physically Handicapped, Trainable Mentally Disabled, and Adaptive Physical Education. She also holds additional certifications in assistive technology, teaching students identified with autism, Neurodevelopmental Training, and arbitration. Her instructional approach emphasizes individualized education programs, family collaboration, and cultural responsiveness, and she intentionally incorporates students’ family traditions and backgrounds into classroom learning.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, McPeek created individualized instructional videos for families and transitioned her program to virtual learning on Zoom. Though she did not consider herself computer savvy, she adapted quickly to ensure continuity of instruction with the help of her principal and CCCOE’s technology department.
In 2024, McPeek established a sensory garden on her school’s adapted playground using her background in gardening. She secured nonprofit support for plants, organized volunteers, and worked with CCCOE leadership to install an irrigation system. The garden continues to provide students with a hands-on space to engage with nature through their senses.
Known for deflecting praise, McPeek often emphasizes that her work is about meeting student needs. Outside the classroom, she enjoys driving cars (especially Corvettes and Mustangs) and staying active through swimming and water aerobics.
As CCCOE celebrates McPeek’s 50 years of service alongside the 50th anniversary of IDEA, her career stands as an example of the lasting impact of educators committed to serving students with disabilities.
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