Now that I am back in my sub era, I am privileged to spend time in a variety of classrooms. Every day is new adventure and a new opportunity to learn from a new class. As a sub, I can also spend some time in special education. This experience has been enlightening! Not only are the students an absolute joy to work with, but the paraeducators and behavioral interventionists are some of the most inspiring people I have ever worked with!
The paraeducators and behavior interventionists in this particular class I have been working with on several occasions have reminded me what it truly means to be an educator. The patience with which these professionals work with the students they are assigned to is awe-inspiring! They show so much care, compassion, and empathy for students with a variety of learning, behavioral, social, and developmental struggles. At the same time, they do not compromise on having high standards for their students. In an age when we continue to see the “othering” of so many different people, these educators treat their students with the respect and dignity all people deserve.
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, whether you are a faculty/staff member at a school or not, we can all learn from how paraeducators and behavior interventionists treat their students. The special education classroom is one of the most loving places I have ever been in. Let’s remember to take time each day to show respect and compassion to all that cross our paths each day. And, never forget to show all who work with students with special needs some extra special love!
PinaRose Education 