Professor Harold Bloom's statement encapsulates the essence of teaching as a transformative journey towards self-awareness and empowerment. When he speaks of bringing the student to a sense of their own presence, he is referring to the profound experience of becoming fully aware of one's existence, identity, and potential. It goes beyond mere academic achievement; it is about fostering a deep sense of self-confidence, belonging, and purpose in each student. As a special education teacher, my mission is to create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where every student, regardless of their abilities or challenges, can discover and embrace their unique sense of self. I believe that every individual has inherent value and deserves the opportunity to thrive, and it is my responsibility to provide the support and guidance necessary to help them realize their full potential. To accomplish this task, I would employ a holistic approach that addresses the diverse needs and strengths of each student. I would prioritize building strong relationships based on trust, respect, and empathy, creating a safe and supportive space where students feel valued and understood. By fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance, I would empower my students to express themselves authentically and to recognize their own worth. In addition to academic instruction, I would incorporate social-emotional learning (SEL) strategies to help students develop essential life skills such as self-awareness, self-regulation, and empathy. Through mindfulness practices, reflection exercises, and meaningful interactions, I would guide my students in exploring their emotions, thoughts, and beliefs, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world. Furthermore, I would promote a strengths-based approach that focuses on celebrating each student's unique talents and abilities. By recognizing and amplifying their strengths, I would help them build confidence and resilience, empowering them to overcome challenges and pursue their goals with determination and optimism. Ultimately, my goal as a special education teacher is to cultivate a sense of agency and self-efficacy in my students, equipping them with the skills and mindset they need to navigate life's challenges and to advocate for themselves in an increasingly complex world. By guiding them to a sense of their own presence, I aim to instill in them a lifelong love of learning, a deep appreciation for their own worth, and the confidence to pursue their dreams fearlessly. As for the fairy tale: Once upon a time, in a land where dreams were as colorful as the rainbow and possibilities as endless as the stars, there lived a special education teacher named Luna. Luna had a heart as vast as the ocean and a spirit as bright as the sun, and she dedicated her life to guiding her students on a magical journey of self-discovery and empowerment. In the enchanted kingdom of Belonging, Luna's classroom was a sanctuary of love and acceptance, where every student felt cherished and celebrated for who they were. With kindness and compassion, Luna nurtured their spirits and illuminated their paths, helping them to see the beauty and brilliance that resided within them. One day, as the kingdom was shrouded in darkness, Luna embarked on a quest to awaken the magic within her students. Armed with wisdom and courage, she led them on a journey of self-exploration and growth, teaching them to embrace their strengths and overcome their fears. Along the way, they encountered challenges and obstacles, but Luna never faltered in her belief in their abilities. With her guidance and support, they learned to trust in themselves and to recognize the limitless potential that lay dormant within them. As they ventured deeper into the heart of the kingdom, they discovered a hidden treasure—their own sense of presence. In that moment of revelation, they realized that they were the heroes of their own stories, capable of shaping their destinies and spreading light wherever they went. And so, with hearts aglow and spirits soaring, Luna and her students returned to the kingdom, ready to embrace the magic of life and to inspire others to do the same. For in the kingdom of Belonging, every dream was possible, and every heart was filled with hope, thanks to the guiding light of Luna, the special education teacher who believed in the power of love, courage, and the human spirit.

My journey through higher education began with a unique opportunity that set me on a path I never anticipated. Attending a high school located on a college campus opened doors I never knew existed. I had the chance to immerse myself in college courses while still in high school, graduating with 42 college credits under my belt. Filled with excitement and a sense of accomplishment, I ventured away from home for my first semester of college, eager to continue my educational journey. However, my excitement quickly turned to disappointment when I received the news that the college I had chosen would not accept the transfer credits I had worked so hard to earn. Suddenly, the path I had envisioned for myself was no longer viable, and I found myself at a crossroads. Refusing to let this setback derail my dreams, I made the difficult decision to return home and attend the college where I had completed my high school education. While this decision offered me the opportunity to salvage some of my credits, it came with its own set of challenges. The college did not offer the program I had originally planned to pursue, forcing me to make the difficult choice to switch majors and forfeit a semester's worth of credits in the process. This setback tested my resolve and pushed me to reevaluate my goals and aspirations. In the face of adversity, I refused to lose sight of my dreams. I threw myself into my new major with determination and passion to make the most of the opportunities. My journey through higher education was far from smooth sailing. Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, including classes being dropped and struggles with financial aid, I remained steadfast in my commitment to my studies. Despite these obstacles, I managed to maintain my academic excellence and graduated summa cum laude. One of the most daunting challenges I encountered was the uncertainty surrounding my financial aid. There were moments when it seemed like the road ahead was blocked. As my financial aid ran out and I found myself unable to pay out of pocket or secure personal loans, the future seemed uncertain and daunting. However, amid this adversity, a beacon of light emerged in the form of the Vice President of Student Affairs. With her guidance and support, I was able to navigate the complexities of financial aid and find a way forward. She worked tirelessly helping me to identify ways that would allow me to continue my education without the burden of financial stress. Her unwavering support was a lifeline during one of the most challenging periods of my college journey. I was adamant about not stopping because I knew that achieving a college degree would be more than just a personal milestone—it would be a legacy for my family. As the first person in my immediate family to pursue higher education, I felt a tremendous weight of responsibility and determination to pave the way for future generations. As I reflect on my college journey, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the support system that helped me through the toughest of times. Moving forward, I am committed to paying it forward and using my experiences to uplift and empower others who may be facing similar challenges. Whether through mentorship, advocacy, or simply lending a listening ear, I hope to make a positive difference in the lives of others. As I embark on the next chapter of my journey, I do so with a renewed sense of hope, determination, and gratitude for the support that carried me through.

Ethel Hedgeman Lyle was an extraordinary woman whose legacy continues to inspire many, including myself, to pursue their dreams despite facing numerous challenges. As a Black woman, her achievements in education and leadership are particularly meaningful, serving as a beacon of hope and determination. Ethel Hedgeman Lyle's life story has influenced my journey towards becoming an educator, particularly focusing on my experiences in STEM, SEL-based learning, and whole-child learning along with my experience working in high-poverty areas as well as private and charter schools will leverage my opportunities to inspire others. Ethel Hedgeman Lyle's life epitomizes resilience, courage, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As the visionary founder of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the first Greek-letter organization established by African American women, she defied societal norms and paved the way for generations to come. Her commitment to education and community upliftment resonates deeply with me, igniting a passion to follow in her footsteps. Growing up as a Black woman in a society riddled with systemic inequalities, I often encountered barriers that sought to limit my aspirations. However, learning about Ethel Hedgeman Lyle's journey instilled within me a profound sense of empowerment. Her unwavering dedication to education, despite facing adversity, inspired me to pursue my dreams relentlessly. I realized that my identity as a Black woman is not a hindrance but rather a source of strength, fueling my desire to make a difference in the field of education. My journey as an educator has been shaped by diverse experiences, from teaching in high-poverty areas to working in SEL-based private schools. These contrasting environments have provided me with invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of education and the unique challenges faced by students from different socio-economic backgrounds. Teaching in high-poverty areas exposed me to the harsh realities that many students endure on a daily basis. Limited access to resources, unstable home environments, and the prevalence of trauma posed significant obstacles to their academic success. However, witnessing the resilience and determination of my students in the face of adversity was truly inspiring. It reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of education as a tool for empowerment and social change. Transitioning to SEL-based private schools offered a stark contrast to my previous experiences. Here, the focus extended beyond academic achievement to encompass the holistic development of students' social and emotional well-being. The implementation of the SEL curriculum and support systems fostered a nurturing environment where students felt valued, heard, and supported. Witnessing the positive impact of SEL practices on students' lives reaffirmed my commitment to creating inclusive and equitable learning environments. As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the importance of leveraging my experiences to inspire others, particularly those who may face similar challenges. Ethel Hedgeman Lyle's legacy serves as a guiding light, reminding me of the power of perseverance and the importance of advocating for equity and justice in education. In sharing my experiences with others, I aim to spark meaningful conversations about the intersectionality of race, gender, and socio-economic status in education. By amplifying marginalized voices and challenging systemic inequalities, I hope to inspire future generations of educators to embrace diversity, cultivate empathy, and advocate for inclusive practices. Moreover, I am committed to leveraging my platform to advocate for policy changes that prioritize equitable access to quality education for all students. Whether through community engagement, professional development workshops, or legislative advocacy, I intend to be a proactive agent of change, working towards a more just and equitable education system. Ethel Hedgeman Lyle's indomitable spirit continues to inspire me on my journey as an educator. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. As I navigate through diverse educational settings, I am committed to using my experiences to inspire others, advocate for equity, and drive positive change in education. In doing so, I hope to honor Ethel Hedgeman Lyle's legacy and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable future for all.