Dawn Menge Interview
Dr. Dawn Menge is an award-winning author, educator, and lecturer who has dedicated over two decades to teaching students with severe cognitive delays. She is best known for her Queen Vernita’s Educational Series and Queen Giggles Kingdom, which have earned more than 90 international literacy awards and 200+ film festival recognitions. With a Ph.D. in Education specializing in Curriculum and Instruction, Dr. Menge combines her expertise in special education with her passion for storytelling to create books that inspire, educate, and celebrate diversity. Beyond her writing, she mentors graduate students, lectures at California State University, San Bernardino, and continues to shape the future of inclusive education. A mother of three and grandmother of seven, Dr. Menge’s legacy is one of compassion, creativity, and empowering children to embrace learning in all its forms.
Inspiration behind Queen Vernita
We started the interview by asking, “What inspired you to create the Queen Vernita’s Educational Series, and how does it connect to your experience in special education?”
Dr. Dawn Menge replied, “The Queen Vernita’s Educational Series was inspired by my passion for education and my students with special needs. I’ve spent over twenty years working with children who have severe cognitive delays, and I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to make learning fun, engaging, and inclusive. I wanted to create a series that children of all abilities could relate to and learn from, books that teach real-world concepts through storytelling. The characters in the Queen Vernita series explore math, science, culture, and friendship while traveling the world, mirroring the diverse experiences my students often don’t see reflected in typical educational materials. Each book is based on actual lessons I’ve taught, people I’ve met, and the belief that all children deserve to see themselves in the stories they read. It’s truly a labor of love that bridges my two biggest passions teaching and writing.”
Making an Impact
The Worlds Times: You’ve won over 90 literacy awards and 200+ film festival awards how do you think your work is making an impact?
Dr. Dawn Menge replied, “Winning awards is incredibly humbling, but what truly matters to me is the impact these stories have on children and educators. The recognition helps shine a light on the importance of inclusive education and the need for materials that speak to all learners. It shows that children’s literature doesn’t have to be limited to just fun or fantasy it can be powerful, educational, and deeply meaningful. What’s been most rewarding is hearing from parents and teachers who use the books to help children learn academic skills, understand different cultures, or see someone like them in a story. The film festival awards have also opened new doors, helping to spread these messages through visual storytelling. I never imagined the reach this would have, and it only motivates me to keep going. It tells me that the world is ready, and eager for books that educate, empower, and inspire.”
Lessons from Students
The Worlds Times: Working with students with severe cognitive delays must be challenging yet rewarding. What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned from them?
Dr. Dawn Menge replied, “Absolutely teaching students with cognitive delays has been the most rewarding part of my life and career. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the power of patience and persistence. Progress may come slowly, but when it does, it’s beautiful and profound. My students have taught me that success doesn’t look the same for everyone, and that’s okay. Each student has their own strengths and ways of communicating, and it’s my job to find those pathways. They’ve also taught me how to celebrate small victories like saying a new word or completing a daily task independently. Their joy, determination, and kindness remind me every day why I chose this path. It’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly meaningful. The love and trust they show me is something I carry into every classroom, every book, and every mentoring session. I’ve learned more from them than I could ever teach.”
Balancing Many Roles
The Worlds Times: You wear many hats teacher, lecturer, author, mentor, and more. How do you manage to balance it all?
Dr. Dawn Menge replied, “It’s definitely a full plate, but I truly love everything I do, and that makes it manageable. Each role I take on feeds into the other. My experiences in the classroom give me real stories to write about, my books help me connect with young readers and families, and lecturing allows me to shape future educators. It’s a cycle that fuels my creativity and sense of purpose. I prioritize by being present in the moment when I’m with my students, they get my full attention. When I’m writing, I’m immersed in that world. I also rely on routines, a strong support system, and most importantly, my family. I’m a mother of three and a grandmother of seven, and they are my biggest motivation. Seeing how proud they are of the work I do reminds me that I’m not just building stories I’m building a legacy of love and learning.”
Advice for Future Changemakers
Lastly we asked, “What advice would you give to aspiring educators and writers who want to make a difference in the lives of children?”
“The most important thing I would say is never underestimate the power of your voice and your heart. Whether you’re in a classroom or behind a keyboard, your words and actions can shape how a child sees themselves and the world. For educators, always remember that every student has value and potential. They may not learn the same way or on the same timeline, but they’re all capable of growth. Be patient, be creative, and most of all, be compassionate. For writers, especially those writing for children, write stories that matter stories that teach, inspire, and include. Don’t be afraid to tackle tough topics or celebrate diversity. Children need to see characters who reflect who they are. Most importantly, stay passionate and persistent. Making a difference doesn’t always come with a spotlight, but it always leaves a lasting imprint. Your work matters keep going, and the right readers will find you.” Dr. Dawn Menge concluded
Connect with Dr. Dawn Menge on LinkedIn
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