End of School Year 2010-2011

Yes, our school year is almost over! Teaching young children with more severe special needs and disabilities is...hmmm. Well, it can be the most fun, happy, good, and rewarding job at times, maybe most of the time. When a child finally takes their first independent steps at age four, or uses language or alternate communication appropriately, it's a payoff that feels great. So many goals, so little time.

It can also be frustrating, exhausting, physically difficult, and emotionally draining job at other times. When a very impulsive child with damage to their brain can't learn not to scratch or pinch, after severe consequences happen immediately at school, but their families don't try to correct misbehavior and they come back every Monday like you have never worked with them at all, it gets depressing. When children with severe physical problems die, it breaks our heart. So much love to share, so many goodbyes, some permanent.

Now another year has been lived and worked, and it ends this week. The last month or so many students seemed to suddenly pick up on the skills we have been teaching them for the last two years. I was surprised, but it's like a gift I can treasure and remember, no matter what the next teacher does or does not do to keep these skills alive. I have done my part, and, amazingly, got to see more of a rewarding payoff than usual.

I will take it and cherish it - nice way to finish.