The Passion Behind Special Education Professor Harold Bloom once said, “The purpose of teaching is to bring the student to his or her sense of his or her own presence.” To me, this statement captures the very heart of why I am passionate about becoming a special education teacher. Bloom reminds us that education is not merely about passing along facts, but about awakening a student’s understanding of themselves—their worth, voice, and unique place in the world. For students with special needs, this awakening is both more challenging and more essential. My mission as a special education teacher is to guide each child toward this recognition, helping them embrace their presence with confidence, dignity, and joy. Defining “Sense of Presence” A sense of presence is more than awareness—it is the lived experience of belonging, of knowing that one’s contributions matter. For many special needs students, society too often focuses on their limitations rather than their possibilities. “Presence” means helping them discover the opposite: that they are seen, valued, and capable of shaping their own futures. It is the moment when a child recognizes not only “I exist,” but “I matter.” My Mission in Special Education My mission begins with creating classrooms rooted in compassion, structure, and high expectations. I believe every child can learn when given the right tools, patience, and encouragement. I will employ individualized strategies that honor each student’s learning style—whether through hands-on activities, visual supports, or technology aids. By celebrating small victories, I can help students build the confidence to reach for greater goals. Equally important is fostering environments where students feel safe to express themselves. That means teaching social and emotional skills alongside academics, showing students that their voice is powerful and deserves to be heard. I envision myself as a guide who walks beside them, not in front of them, empowering them to take ownership of their learning journey. Finally, my mission extends beyond the classroom walls. I will work collaboratively with families, communities, and other professionals to ensure that each child’s growth is supported holistically. A strong network of support helps reinforce that sense of presence everywhere a student goes. Why I Am Passionate About This Path My passion comes from witnessing how education can transform lives. In my own journey, I have seen how encouragement and belief can spark growth in children who once doubted themselves. The special education profession allows me to combine patience, creativity, and advocacy into one powerful purpose: helping students discover their potential. Every time a child learns a new skill, overcomes a barrier, or smiles with pride at their own achievement, I feel that I am fulfilling my calling. A Brief Fairy Tale: The Teacher and the Hidden Light Once upon a time, there was a teacher who entered a forest where many children lived. Some of these children carried lanterns, but their lights were dim, hidden under heavy covers of doubt and fear. The world often passed them by, not noticing the faint glow each child carried. The teacher, however, carried a small spark of her own. She kneeled beside each child, gently lifting the cover of their lantern. She whispered, “Your light matters. Let it shine.” At first, the flames flickered nervously, afraid of being seen. But as the teacher clapped and cheered for every spark, the lanterns grew brighter. Soon the forest glowed with hundreds of lights, each unique, each beautiful. The children looked around and, for the first time, realized that they belonged not in the shadows, but in the brilliance of their own presence. The teacher’s spark had not replaced theirs—it had only shown them how to use what they already carried. Conclusion Professor Bloom’s words remind us that education is about igniting presence, not dictating it. My passion for special education lies in this very task: guiding students to see themselves not as limited, but as luminous. My mission is to ensure that every student I teach leaves knowing that their presence is powerful and irreplaceable. This is why I choose this profession not only as a career, but as a lifelong calling.

Balancing Education, Fatherhood, and My Dreams for the Future Being a student and a single parent is one of the most challenging yet fulfilling journeys I have ever embarked on. Every day, I find myself balancing the responsibilities of furthering my education while raising my daughter on my own. The challenge is not just in managing time but in ensuring that I am present and emotionally available for her, all while striving to provide a future that is bright and full of opportunities. Despite the struggles, I embrace this role with great honor, knowing that my hard work and dedication will ultimately pave the way for a better life for both of us. One of the biggest obstacles I face as a single parent in school is the ability to juggle academic responsibilities while being the sole provider and caregiver for my daughter. There are times when I have to stay up late to study after putting her to bed, wake up early to get her ready for school, and still show up to my own classes prepared. Financial constraints add another layer of difficulty, as tuition, books, childcare, and daily living expenses create a heavy burden. However, my determination to succeed is fueled by the deep love I have for my daughter and my unwavering belief that education is the key to breaking barriers. Beyond being a student and a father, I am also passionate about working with youth. My experiences as a physical education teacher have reinforced my desire to impact young lives positively. I see firsthand how important it is to guide and mentor children, providing them with structure, encouragement, and a safe space to grow. This role has also made me a better father, teaching me patience, empathy, and the importance of being an active, engaged presence in a child’s life. As a single father, I have to be both mom and dad to my daughter, and while it is the most challenging role I have ever had, it is also the most rewarding. There are moments when I worry about whether I am doing enough, but I remind myself that showing up every day with love, dedication, and resilience is what truly matters. My ultimate dream is to create my own recreation camp where young people can engage in sports, develop leadership skills, and build confidence in themselves. I want to establish a place where children, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, can find guidance, support, and a sense of belonging. However, I know that the first step toward achieving this dream is completing my education. My degree will not only equip me with the knowledge and skills needed to bring my vision to life, but it will also set an example for my daughter. I want her to see education as the light that leads to new opportunities, the tool that empowers individuals to rise above adversity and chase their dreams. This scholarship would be a tremendous help in my journey. It would ease the financial strain that comes with being both a student and a single parent, allowing me to focus more on my studies and my goals. More than that, it would serve as a stepping stone toward building the future I envision for my daughter and the youth I aspire to help. Education is not just about personal success for me—it is about creating a legacy that will inspire the next generation, starting with my daughter. Through this scholarship, I will continue pushing forward, proving to myself and to her that perseverance, passion, and education can turn even the toughest circumstances into opportunities for growth and success.

Empowering a Child with a Rare Disorder: A Holistic Approach I still remember the first time I worked with a child who had a rare genetic disorder. His name was Samuel, and despite the challenges he faced, his determination to learn and communicate inspired me. Working with children like Samuel or Rebecca requires patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of their unique needs. Every child has potential, and it is our role as educators and caregivers to find ways to unlock it. Personalized and Multi-Sensory Learning When working with a child who has a rare disorder, my first step would be to gain a thorough understanding of their specific condition. This includes researching medical insights, consulting with specialists, and collaborating with the child's family to understand their strengths and challenges. Once I have this foundation, I would tailor my teaching approach to fit their needs. Multi-sensory learning is an effective method for children with disabilities. For example, if Rebecca struggles with verbal communication, I would incorporate sign language, picture exchange communication systems (PECS), or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. If she learns better through touch and movement, I would introduce hands-on activities like textured flashcards, sensory bins, or kinesthetic learning techniques. By engaging multiple senses, I can enhance her ability to absorb and retain information in a way that works best for her. Building a Supportive and Structured Environment Children with rare disorders often thrive in environments that offer structure and predictability. Establishing a consistent routine would help Rebecca feel secure and confident in her learning journey. Using visual schedules, timers, and social stories can assist in transitioning between activities smoothly, reducing anxiety and frustration. In addition, creating a positive reinforcement system would encourage Rebecca to stay engaged and motivated. Whether it’s through verbal praise, small rewards, or a token system, reinforcing her efforts and achievements would build her confidence and willingness to learn. The Role of Family in Education and Progress Family plays an essential role in the education and development of a child with a disability. Parents and siblings are the child’s first teachers, and their involvement in the learning process can significantly impact progress. I would work closely with Rebecca’s family to ensure consistency between home and school environments. By holding regular meetings with the family, I can share observations, provide strategies for home learning, and receive feedback on what works best for Rebecca. Additionally, offering resources, such as support groups and training workshops, would empower the family to become strong advocates for her education. When families feel supported, they are better equipped to help their child reach their fullest potential. Encouraging Social Inclusion and Emotional Growth Beyond academics, it is crucial to support Rebecca’s emotional and social development. Encouraging peer interactions through structured play, group activities, and inclusive classroom settings can help her build friendships and develop communication skills. Teaching empathy and awareness to classmates fosters an accepting and inclusive environment where all children feel valued. Furthermore, fostering self-expression through art, music, and storytelling can provide Rebecca with alternative ways to communicate her feelings and thoughts. When children feel understood and heard, they develop a stronger sense of self-worth and resilience. In conclusion working with a child like Rebecca requires a combination of patience, research, and innovative teaching strategies. By embracing multi-sensory learning, providing a structured and supportive environment, collaborating with her family, and fostering social inclusion, I can help Rebecca reach her full potential. Every child deserves an opportunity to learn and grow, and with the right approach, we can break down barriers and create a brighter future for children with rare disorders.