“I have learned that the purpose of teaching is to bring the student to his or her sense of his or her own presence.” – Harold Bloom This quote captures the essence of why I am passionate about pursuing a career in special education. For me, “a sense of their own presence” means helping students develop the self-awareness to recognize their unique strengths, abilities, and inherent value. It’s about empowering them to feel visible, heard, and proud of who they are, regardless of any challenges they may face. I believe this is particularly important for students in special education, who often feel marginalized or misunderstood. As a special education teacher, my mission will be to guide these students toward fully realizing their potential—academically, socially, and emotionally. In my experiences as an instructional assistant in special education classrooms, I have witnessed the transformative impact of an inclusive, supportive environment. Whether it’s helping a student with behavioral difficulties regulate their emotions or celebrating the success of a student with learning disabilities as they reach an academic milestone, I’ve seen how much a positive classroom environment can impact a child’s sense of self. These moments not only reflect academic growth, but also emotional and social progress, and they reinforce the idea that every student, regardless of their background or abilities, is capable of greatness. My mission as a future special education teacher is to build a classroom that fosters a sense of safety, acceptance, and belonging. I will strive to meet the individual needs of my students by employing personalized teaching strategies and offering consistent encouragement. I plan to integrate project-based learning, sensory accommodations, social-emotional learning, and assistive technologies, all while fostering an environment that encourages self-expression and independence. By doing this, I hope to help my students experience their own presence in a way that allows them to take pride in their uniqueness and build confidence. Additionally, my role as an advocate for my students extends beyond the classroom. I want to be a voice for my students and ensure they have access to the resources they need to thrive. I want them to know that their voices matter, that they are deserving of opportunities, and that their differences are valuable contributions to the world. Becoming a special education teacher isn’t just a career choice—it’s a calling. I am committed to helping my students realize that they are capable of achieving anything they set their minds to. I believe that when students feel recognized for who they are, they can achieve remarkable things, and I am eager to help them reach their full potential.