Do you ever have moments where you are reminded why God called you into your profession? Last week I had one of those moments. This conversation brought tears to my eyes because it helped me realize that I have given my students the ability to have open and honest conversations about topics that may be a bit awkward.
I was teaching a small group with two of my students. One of them has been in my class for two years now and the other just this year. I do not know how we got on this topic but we were discussing how I used to be a kindergarten teacher here is the conversation
Student: I remember seeing you when I was in third grade and thought she walks differently.
Me: Why did you think I walk like that?
Student: I don't know maybe that you got stung by a bee?
Me: haha okay what do you think now?
Student: Well you were born that way. I'm used to it now and its just normal. But I still have never seen anyone like you.
Me: I agree. I don't really see anyone like me either.
Student #2: Yeah when I first met you online I thought you talked differently.
Me: Yes I do and what do you think now??
Student #2: It's fine
&& This is why I became a teacher. To show these kiddos that yes there are different people in the world and you may wonder about them or look at them and think to yourself hmm that's odd but once you get to know them you realize they are just like you "normal". I know that God called me to the special education field to show my kiddos that yes you may have a disability but that does not mean you cannot be independent and successful. Also to show parents to not get discouraged about your kiddo who is a little different because if you push them hard enough and speak words of encouragement they will be a success.
As I end this school year with these kiddos I can feel good about my teaching because I taught them how to see someone who is different and to consider them normal and to me that is a much greater lesson than any academic lesson.
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