the process
She cried and raised her voice as she shouted across the oval conference table; first yelling at last year's teacher, then at me, the potential new teacher her child would have if she approved the move. Her defensiveness totally understandable as she struggles in her singleness as a mother and provider. I got it. I felt her pain in a real way.Disappointed parents are common when you work in special ed. Some choose to stay that way, and others embrace the opportunity of early intervention in a loving classroom like ours.
Our classroom is a magical place, Mrs. X. Really. Not because of me, but because of our teacher to student ratio and because of our pacing. Kids succeed in there. I have seen miracles.
And I meant every word I said as she stared me down while a couple of educators in the room sniffled a bit, wiping tears. We don't make more money if he goes here or there. We are only in on this to find the best spot for the child. Trust us. Trust our best intentions. Trust that we will provide every chance for success. But don't count on us to do it all. We will all vow to work together to help this child. This is a team effort.
Then the call. He is coming...
21 comments
You really have such a great spirit. That child is lucky; I hope his mother appreciates the gift she's been given in having you there for her little boy.
It sounds like she felt heard and validated. I'm sure that was half the battle.
You did a great job.
Lucky kid, lucky mom, lucky you :)
Bless you!!
Oooh DeNae beat missrobin.
Hey, that was lovely. You are such a good writer. And teacher.
And you're pretty too. ;)
Amazing post-thanks for sharing.
I second DeNae!
I can't imagine the feelings that must go through people as they realize they have a special needs child. I am in awe of you and others who take the time to work with and help them.
Yea for the greatest teachers - including the Moms who sweat and cry for the success of their littles.
I third DeNae. You're wonderful, Kazzy!
Very tough job. Very very.
Awww, that's so sweet! I got warm fuzzies reading that.
Yay! I remember when Michael was first put in special ed at age 3, and then again, after we had moved and put him in regular kindergarten and they wanted to put him back in special ed again, oh, the pain! It feels like a real rejection b/c, as mothers, our job is to raise self-sufficient people who can contribute to society in a positive way. This is one of the first signs that it might not happen. Instead, many of these children will be some kind of drain on society. It's such a failure. I, personally, am over that now, but when it is all new ... augh! That woman is so lucky that she has you, someone who understands and cares . .. .
It is easy for me to take a higher road when I am not a mom of a special needs child. I am not fooling myself on this. But I at least try to bridge the gap a little between despair and hope.
Wow. Could you come to my school? So proud of you.
Sounds like YOU worked a miracle. I teared up myself.
I love that you understand her frustration and take it for what it is, her love for her child. I'm glad she chose to go with your class.
He'll succeed in your class. Mom will be happy.
What a hard thing for her. I'm so glad you were there, to inspire that oh so needed trust.
Sounds like it's going to be a great year.
your handling it well.
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