12 Things Special Education Teachers Love the Most About Their Jobs
When we asked special education teachers to share a secret they wish the rest of the world knew, the vast majority responded by sharing how much they love their jobs:
“My job isn’t ‘sad.’”
“It is the best job in the world.”
“I wake up every day with a smile.”
After reading such beautiful responses, we had to know more. We asked the special education teachers in our Facebook community to describe what they love the most about their jobs. Their answers are sure to put a smile on your face, too.
1. “The bond we make with our students is incredible.” — Lexie Nooyen
2. “When your student has that ‘aha!’ moment, no matter how small it is, it’s a reason to celebrate.” — Mandy Ree
3. “I love making them laugh, and they make me laugh every day no matter what challenges we all are facing.” — Becky Mahan
4. “The best part of my job is all of it. I love the meaningful relationships I build with the families, the amazing team I have that helps me grow as an educator, the trust I build with my students and the magic I feel when students smile, work collaboratively and believe in themselves.” — Nadia Sinno
5. “I love it when we are working towards a goal and I get to see the student be successful in it. Makes the hard times so worthwhile.” — Sue Stewart
6. “The eight little faces that trust me with their futures every day!” — Denise Ertl Hansen
7. “Watching a child learn to advocate for themselves. And the dance parties, definitely the daily dance parties!” — Emily Gusset
8. “My students have taught me more (and continue to teach me more) than any of the universities I have attended.” — Cissy Harland Carter
9. “When something finally ‘clicks’ and my student is finally able to perform that skill we’ve been working on for months.” — Jennifer Honeycutt
10. “Arriving every day to a job I love and look forward to.” — Lisa Harris
11. “One word: pride. Pride in the little things, the big things and everything in between.” — Bailey Sonday
12. “The long-lasting relationships I’ve developed with awesome parents and their children! You’ve all made me a better person, and I’m blessed to be a part of your lives. I’m grateful for you!” — Kori LaDe Thomas
If you’re a special education teacher, what would you add to this list? Share your response in the comment section below.
Editor’s note: Some answers have been shortened for brevity/clarity.
Related story: 24 Secrets of Special Education Teachers