The profession of special education is a calling that resonates deeply with me, driven by a passion for helping all students discover their unique potential, strengths, and sense of self. The quote by Professor Harold Bloom, “The purpose of teaching is to bring the student to his or her sense of his or her own presence,” encapsulates the essence of what I strive to achieve as a special education teacher. This statement implies that true education goes beyond mere academic instruction; it involves guiding students to understand who they are, what they are capable of, and how they fit into the world around them. To that end, my mission as a special education teacher is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and empowered. I aim to help my students recognize their individual strengths, embrace their uniqueness, and foster a sense of belonging. By developing personalized learning plans tailored to their specific needs and interests, I can enable them to thrive academically and socially. I believe that building strong relationships with my students, along with promoting self-advocacy and self-awareness, will be instrumental in guiding them toward experiencing their own presence. Defining Presence A student’s sense of presence is rooted in self-awareness and acknowledgment of their abilities, preferences, emotions, and aspirations. It involves recognizing that they matter and that they have the power to influence their own lives and the lives of those around them. For special needs students, this journey can be more complex due to the unique challenges they face, including communication barriers, social differences, and varying cognitive processing styles. By addressing these challenges with understanding, patience, and creativity, I can help my students navigate their paths toward self-discovery. Guiding Students Toward Self-Discovery To guide my special needs students in experiencing their sense of presence, I will employ several strategies: Individualized Learning Plans: I will work closely with each student to create tailored learning plans that focus on their strengths, interests, and learning styles. This personalized approach will allow them to engage in meaningful and relevant activities while progressing at their own pace. Positive Reinforcement: Celebrating small victories is essential. I will reinforce positive behaviors and achievements, no matter how minor they may seem. This affirmation can boost self-esteem and empower students to take pride in their accomplishments. Encouraging Self-Expression: I will provide opportunities for self-expression through various mediums, whether it’s through art, music, or storytelling. Encouraging students to share their thoughts and feelings will foster self-awareness and help them recognize their own voices. Building Relationships: Establishing a trusting and supportive relationship with each student is crucial. I will take the time to know them personally, understand their backgrounds, and actively listen to their needs, fostering a sense of safety and belonging. Teaching Advocacy Skills: I will equip my students with the tools to express their needs and desires, empowering them to advocate for themselves. This includes teaching them how to ask questions, seek help, and express their opinions. A Brief Fairy Tale: The Journey of Elara Once upon a time, in the magical land of Educia, there lived a young girl named Elara. Elara was no ordinary girl; she had the extraordinary gift of imagination, capable of seeing the world in vibrant colors that others couldn’t. However, in her village, many did not understand her unique vision, leaving Elara feeling isolated and unsure of her place in the world. One day, a wise and compassionate teacher named Ms. Liora arrived in Educia. She had a special talent for recognizing the hidden potential in every child. When Ms. Liora met Elara, she saw a spark of brilliance and creativity that had been dimmed by the shadows of doubt. “Dear Elara,” Ms. Liora spoke gently, “I see how brightly you shine, even if you don’t see it yourself. Let us embark on a journey together to uncover your true presence.” With that, Ms. Liora and Elara set off on an adventure through the Enchanted Forest of Understanding. Each day, Ms. Liora introduced Elara to magical creatures who embodied different strengths and talents. They met the Artful Owl, who taught Elara to express her feelings through painting, bringing her dreams to life on canvas. They encountered the Curious Fox, who encouraged her to ask questions and explore new ideas without fear. As Elara learned from these wise creatures, she discovered more about herself and her abilities. With every lesson, she gained confidence and began sharing her artwork with others, illuminating the beauty of her unique perspective. Ms. Liora cheered her on, celebrating each step Elara took toward self-acceptance. Elara’s journey continued as she met the Brave Lion, who taught her the importance of advocacy. Together, they worked on asserting her needs and desires, ensuring she felt heard and valued. With the support of Ms. Liora and her newfound friends, Elara bloss

The decision to pursue a career in teaching stems from a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of education. Teaching is not merely a profession but a vocation allowing individuals to shape minds and influence lives. I am drawn to teaching because I want to make a meaningful impact on the next generation, instilling a love for learning, fostering curiosity, and equipping students with the skills they need to succeed. One of the primary reasons for my interest in teaching is my desire to inspire and empower young learners. I believe that education opens doors and creates opportunities for individuals to explore their passions and potential. I want to create an environment where students feel encouraged to ask questions, express themselves, and pursue their interests. By fostering a supportive and interactive classroom atmosphere, I hope to instill confidence in my students and encourage them to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Watching a child grasp a new concept or develop a skill brings me immense joy. My passion for teaching is also rooted in personal experience, particularly influenced by a remarkable teacher who changed my life. In middle school, I had the privilege of having Mrs. Recalde as my English teacher. She was more than just an educator; she was a mentor, a confidante, and a beacon of encouragement. I remember struggling with writing and feeling discouraged because I believed that my ideas were not worth sharing. Mrs. Recalde saw potential in me that I had not recognized in myself. Mrs. Recalde introduced us to various forms of literature and writing styles, igniting a passion for storytelling that I had never experienced before. She encouraged us to express our thoughts and emotions through writing, emphasizing that our voices were important. What made her unique was her ability to connect with each student on a personal level. She would spend time after class discussing our interests, offering constructive feedback, and nurturing our creativity. Mrs. Recalde created a safe space in the classroom where students felt valued and motivated to take risks in their learning. One pivotal moment occurred during a writing assignment where we were tasked with composing a short story. I hesitated at first, unsure of my ability to craft a narrative. However, under Mrs. Recalde's guidance, I found the courage to share my story. She praised my work, highlighting its strengths and encouraging me to continue writing. That validation was transformative; it turned my apprehension into enthusiasm. It was the first time I realized that I could express myself creatively. Mrs. Recalde's unwavering support and faith in my abilities inspired me not only to become a better writer but also to believe in myself. Her influence extended beyond the classroom; she imparted lessons about perseverance, self-confidence, and the importance of following one’s passions. Her impact was profound, and I often reflect on how her encouragement shaped my journey. It is this experience that fuels my desire to teach—I want to be that guiding force for my students. My interest in pursuing a career in teaching is rooted in a passion for inspiring young minds and fostering a love for learning. My experience with Mrs. Recalde, a life-changing teacher, solidified my conviction about the crucial role educators play in shaping lives. I am committed to creating an inclusive classroom environment where students feel empowered, valued, and eager to learn. I aspire to inspire the next generation just as Mrs. Recalde inspired me, encouraging them to find their voices and reach their potential. Teaching, for me, is not just a career; it is a chance to contribute to a brighter future.

Teaching children is not just a profession; it is a calling that encompasses passion, commitment, and an inherent desire to make a difference in young lives. Specifically, I aspire to teach kids ages 5 to 10, a critical stage in their development when they learn foundational skills that will shape their future. My motivation stems from several key reasons, including the joy of fostering curiosity, the importance of shaping character, the thrill of inspiring a love for learning, and the opportunity to positively influence the next generation. I believe that teaching this age group allows me to ignite a lifelong curiosity in children. At ages 5 to 10, children are naturally inquisitive; they ask a myriad of questions about the world around them. This is a prime opportunity to cultivate their sense of wonder, guiding them through learning processes that stimulate their minds. I want to create a classroom environment where exploration is encouraged, and students feel free to share their thoughts and questions. This will not only enhance their cognitive skills but also create a strong foundation for critical thinking and problem-solving as they grow older. The thrill of watching a child’s eyes light up with understanding is irreplaceable and serves as a reminder of the profound impact that educators can have. I recognize the critical role educators play in shaping character and social skills during early childhood. Children ages 5 to 10 are starting to develop their social identities, learning about empathy, cooperation, and respect. Teaching them allows me the unique opportunity to model positive behavior, promote inclusivity, and instill values such as kindness and integrity. These skills are just as important as academic achievements and lay the groundwork for healthy relationships throughout life. I aspire to create a nurturing environment where children learn to appreciate diversity and engage in cooperative learning. Teaching this age group presents the joy of fostering a love for learning. From introducing them to the joys of reading to sparking their interest in science and mathematics, I aim to make learning fun and engaging. I remember the teachers who made subjects come alive for me, and I want to be that teacher for my students. By incorporating creative methods such as hands-on activities, storytelling, and interactive discussions, I hope to show students that learning can be exciting and fulfilling. The enthusiasm of young learners is contagious, and I am eager to harness that energy to create an engaging curriculum that caters to diverse learning styles. At this stage, children are impressionable and tend to absorb information and attitudes from their surroundings. As an educator, I would have the honor of being a significant influence on their academic motivation and self-esteem. I aim to build strong relationships with my students, creating an environment where they feel valued and supported. By celebrating their successes, encouraging perseverance in the face of challenges, and providing constructive feedback, I can help them develop a robust sense of self-worth. This supportive environment will empower them to set and achieve their goals, overcoming obstacles with resilience. In conclusion, my desire to teach kids ages 5 to 10 is rooted in the passion for inspiring curiosity, shaping character, fostering a love for learning, and making a positive impact during their formative years. I believe that education is not merely about imparting knowledge but also about nurturing well-rounded individuals who are equipped to navigate the complexities of life. As I embark on this journey as an educator, I am committed to creating a classroom environment that is supportive, engaging, and inclusive, ultimately helping my students flourish academically, socially, and emotionally.