Now, after more than 30 years teaching students with special needs, I have found that I am part circus performer( juggling all the things that need to get done), part cheerleader ( yes, you can), part counselor for kids, teachers and parents) and part child advocate, who really gets to know the strengths and and needs of each child, and who is willing to stand up for a child. Every child is gifted in some way, it is part of our job to search for those gifts and help develop them. One of my mantras: Never let curriculum get in the way of what a kid really needs. Also, I have found that for most kids it is better to serve as a guide or mentor rather than a dictator. If I as a teacher can honestly say that I put the child’s needs first, regardless of what the petty little rules and policies dictate, I can get a good night’s sleep. Lesson plans are more a sign of hope than reality some days.

As far as how I present myself…I greet my students when they come to class or when I see them in public. I try to be firm , but fair( that is a cliche for a reason!) Honesty and plain speaking are also traits to strive for. I have learned to become much more assertive. I try to use discipline with love and logic techniques when working with confrontive situations. Humor is a great stress reliever for both kids and adults. I try to act professionally which includes knowing when to speak up and when to keep my mouth shut in the teacher lounge or in public about confidential student matters. I also have my teaching certificates on the wall just as a doctor or lawyer displays professional certicates. I make an extraordinary effort to continue my professional education so I can have the latest laws, techniques, and theories in my toolbox. I am active in professional education associations. Finally, I try to be generous with my time: time to listen, time to think, time to prepare, time to pick up studnets in the morning to make sure they get to school, time to mentor teachers, time to help with scout and 4-H projects, and time to give a hug and a smile.

A nice side benefit… yes, mostly the kids and parents like me. The administrators either cooperate with me or have learned to to leave me alone. Other teachers frequently ask for my help. I get frequent affirmations from former students and families. I still enjoy going to work each day. What more can I ask for?

even chew GUM in class lol