While I was
searching for a news article that would stress the importance of Special
Education I came across an article about a Special Education teacher receiving
the award for "Teacher of the Year". While I was reading this article
the passion that Charlotte Land had for her students and her job just radiated
the importance of classrooms such as this. She talks on the personal level of
being a vital part of her students' lives and the importance of having a good
relationship with their family. She states, "We must have sensitivity towards these families
as they cope with the ongoing needs of a disabled child at home. We must
respect the challenging journey knowing with humility that we are only a small
part of that journey" (Bridges 22). This deep respect for her students and
the way that each one of her Special Education colleagues will be cheering on
each student to succeed is the reason Special Education is so important. As I
have said in my past blog posts, the students in these classrooms just wanted
to be treated normally and seen as an equal by their peers. Their families,
along with their teachers need to be their biggest cheerleaders because they
are the ones that spend the most time with them. Special Education is important
because it gives a voice and a defense for those who cannot stand up and speak
for themselves. Helping others when they cannot help themselves is the most
selfless act in this world and that is why this profession matters.
Bridges, Kathy. "Land Named Haymon-Morris' Top Teacher." Land Named Haymon-Morris' Top Teacher. N.p., 29 Oct. 2012. Web. 02 Nov. 2012. <http://www.barrowcountynews.com/section/11/article/18231/>.
Hi Allie! I'm from the other WRA class, but i'm also going into Education, i'm just looking more toward elementary education. After reading this i found that special education and elementary teachers both have a lot in common when it comes to respect, patience, and being the "cheerleaders" for their students! They may be for different situations but it's just such a great thing that these teachers do. I can see the emotion you have for this field and I can tell you will be a great teacher some day! Good luck with everything!
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with what you are saying. These students just want to get treated like everyone else. The special education teacher at my old elementary school was also teacher of the year a couple of years ago. I highly respect him and he is a big role model for me. He is the reason that I want to become a special education teacher.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing my TOTY article in your blog. As I read your response, it was apparent that you will be a wonderful teacher to these special students. You have a big heart for these students and I'm sure you'll make a difference as you provide a learning community for your students. Best wishes with your new career in Special Education.
Delete