Special Education Philosophy Statement

There is not a better job than being a teacher. As a teacher, I have an opportunity to make an impact in the life of every child I encounter. As an effective teacher, I know that all children have different learning abilities. In our schools today, there are special education students that are not getting the same opportunities as general education students. One of the reasons a special education student may not be getting those opportunities is the teacher lacks the skills, needed to teach special education students. Many special education children have a low self-esteem and feel withdrawn because they are classified as a special education. Why do I want to pursue a graduate degree in special education? I want to make a difference and make every child feel good about themselves and open their eyes to what they can learn and what they can achieve. It starts with building a positive relationship with your students. For example, I get to know my students, and find out what their interests are outside of school. I want
to create a positive learning environment for all students, but especially the special education student. It is important to me, that they know I truly care about their future. I currently teach high school students in grades 9-12.
I teach construction technology, which is a fancy name for the different building trades such as carpentry, welding, and residential wiring. Many students that take my class are special education students. My class is not a core subject and in order to take my class, you have to request to take it. I know the kids in my class have an interest in learning the different construction trades and that is why they signed up. I talk to all of my students about how they can be successful in my class. Furthermore, I talk to them about how they can be successful in the real world and that it takes believing in yourself. I want to build the confidence levels up on my special education students, and let them know they can do anything. For example, I let them know that just because they may struggle with their reading skills, that does not mean they cannot go to college or enter the workforce and be
successful. Why do I want a graduate degree in special education? There is nothing that gives me greater pleasure than watching a special education student graduate high school and start the next chapter in their life. Over my 13 years of teaching, I cannot count how many of my special education students are working in the construction trades as licensed electricians, licensed plumbers, or licensed heating and ventilation mechanics. When I hear their stories, it puts a smile on my face because I know how hard they worked and how bad they wanted it. As a teacher, I am so proud of my special education students, and thankful I was able to impact their life.