Distinguished Teacher Joanne Beeson

You've chosen a profession of weighty, tender matters, but you have the help and resources of other professionals and parents on the team of every special needs student. Everyone on each team is to be an advocate for that one child, and each comes equipped with filters and tools to provide the best you can to equip each child with competence in skills and confidence in his ability always to try. Let each one see that you are equipped in that same way, as you help him and all the students you serve accomplish all they can toward their most meaningful, independent futures.

Teaching provides daily opportunities to help children learn skills and gain competence. Teachers can use that competence to encourage and promote students' confidence in their ability always to try and to safely be themselves.