Reflections on Teaching Developmentally Disabled Students: A Challenging and Rewarding Journey
Working with developmentally disabled individuals, whether children or adults, has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career. My experiences teaching in a self-contained classroom ranged from mild to severe disability, with a focus on providing an enriching educational environment for my students.
From Children to Adults, a Diverse Student Body
My journey began by working closely with a diverse group of children, ranging from 1st grade to 5th grade. I held various positions, covering a spectrum of developmental disabilities. I had the privilege of teaching in a self-contained classroom, where most of my students remained throughout their primary education until they transitioned to middle school. Having an aide with me at all times made these years both challenging and rewarding, and we overcame rare staffing problems together.
Year after year, I had a few students who managed to integrate into general education classes with the support of additional resources. One of my former students, who had exceptional talent in the arts, is now set to attend college on a scholarship. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and adapting to the unique needs of each student.
Innovative Teaching Methods and Community Involvement
Despite budget cuts, which eliminated field trips, I found creative ways to engage my students. One year, we planted tomato seeds, a project that not only brought joy to our classroom but also provided a practical learning experience. The children learned valuable life skills such as counting money and planting, all while enjoying the sun and fresh air. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and the learning was even more meaningful when parents and staff shared their success stories at the tomatoes' harvest.
In addition to these hands-on projects, we conducted fundraisers, such as ordering items from a catalog and selling them. These activities were not only fun and engaging but also taught the students to work together and make independent choices. While I was reimbursed for the cost of goods, the shared experiences and community involvement created lasting memories for all involved.
Special Education and Personal Insights
Teaching special education is not for everyone, as it requires a unique set of skills and a compassionate heart. However, it suited me perfectly. My dedication to this field was inspired by a neighbor's child who was in a wheelchair due to cerebral palsy. In the early 1960s, when she was growing up, there were no schools that catered to her needs. Her family, like mine, was struggling financially, and her mother had to rely on my mother for support, which proved futile due to the lack of services.
Reflecting on these experiences, I gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by developmentally disabled individuals and their families. Over time, I became convinced that the responsibility for helping these students should not lie with them but with the so-called 'normal' people in society. This perspective shifted my approach in both my personal and professional life.
My teaching experience extended to both child and adult classes. While the younger students were generally more enthusiastic and eager to learn, some of the adult students had different motivations. There were instances where a particular adult student, whom I jokingly called the 'hairdresser,' consistently made my evenings more challenging. On the other hand, some younger students showed remarkable talent, especially in the arts. I was often inspired to let them choose their own projects, fostering their creativity and self-expression.
These experiences taught me that every student, regardless of their age or developmental needs, has the potential to grow, learn, and shine. The journey of teaching developmentally disabled students has been a humbling and enriching experience that I will cherish forever.