I am deeply passionate about being a teacher for students with special needs because I believe every individual deserves the opportunity to learn and thrive in an environment made to fit to their unique strengths and challenges. I've always been drawn to the idea of making a difference in the lives of others, even more so when my middle son was diagnosed with high-functioning autism when he was 2 years old, and I see teaching as a way to not only impart knowledge but also to foster a sense of belonging, confidence, and independence in my students.My mission is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. I strive to empower my students to develop self-awareness, self-confidence, and a strong sense of self-esteem. Professor Bloom's quote suggests that the essence of teaching goes beyond imparting knowledge; it involves guiding students to a deeper understanding and appreciation of themselves. To bring a student to a sense of their own presence is to help them recognize their unique identity, strengths, and value in the world. One way to guide my special needs students to experience a sense of their own presence is through personalized and differentiated instruction. By understanding each student's strengths, interests, and learning styles, I can and will adjust my teaching approaches to meet their individual needs. This would involve using multi-sensory materials, assistive technologies, and hands-on activities to engage students and make learning meaningful and accessible to them. I believe in employing a strengths-based approach, where I will identify and celebrate the unique abilities and interests of each student. By scaffolding their learning experiences and providing tailored support, I will guide them in unlocking their full potential. I will also foster a growth mindset, encouraging my students to view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning Fostering a supportive and inclusive classroom culture is crucial. I would emphasize the importance of empathy, kindness, and respect, both among students and towards themselves. Through collaborative learning experiences, peer support, and positive reinforcement, I would create opportunities for my students to build social connections and develop a sense of belonging. Furthermore, I would incorporate mindfulness and self-reflection practices into our daily routine. By teaching strategies for self-regulation, emotional awareness, and coping skills, I can help my students navigate challenges and cultivate a sense of inner calm and resilience. The brief Fairy Tale - In the heart of the enchanted forest, there lived a teacher named Sara. With a gentle smile and a heart full of compassion, Sara embarked on a quest to guide her special needs students to discover the magic within themselves. Drawing inspiration from the wisdom of the ancient trees and the whispers of the wind, Sara understood that true teaching went beyond the confines of textbooks and classrooms. She believed in the power of nurturing the spirit and awakening the inner light that shone within each of her students. With patience as her lantern and empathy as her guide, Sara embarked on a journey of discovery alongside her students. Together, they wandered through the meadows of imagination, scaled the mountains of challenges, and danced beneath the canopy of stars. Through moments of triumph and moments of doubt, Sara remained steadfast in her mission to help her students experience a sense of their own presence. She celebrated their strengths, encouraged their curiosity, and embraced their uniqueness with open arms. And as the seasons changed and the years passed, Sara's students blossomed like flowers in the spring, their hearts aglow with the knowledge that they were seen, heard, and cherished. And in the warm embrace of Sara's love and compassion, they found the courage to shine brightly, illuminating the world with their presence for all eternity.