Special needs educators play a vital role in shaping the lives of students, creating an environment where they feel supported, valued, and capable of achieving their goals. The Best Buddies program, which connects students with special needs and their peers, is a reflection of the compassion, dedication, and commitment these educators bring to the school every day.

This March, in honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, the voices of students can help us gain a deeper appreciation for the work these educators do. Their patience, encouragement, and care make a lasting impact on the students they serve.

“I really like my teachers because they help me with learning and homework,” freshman Sabina Rafiq said. “They teach me when I need help and always care for me.”

Rafiq’s favorite teacher, SAILS teacher Nona Banks has been a constant source of support.

“Then after I’m done with work, she gives me the iPad,” Rafiq said.

Banks not only helps with schoolwork but also ensures students have moments to relax after completing their tasks.

“The most rewarding part about working with special needs students is that they never hold back from being who they truly are,” Banks said. “They are all so different, and funny, and smart in their own way.”

Sophomore Izzy Witz also said she values the care and support from her teachers.

“I like my teachers because they help me, and they make me feel safe,” Witz said. “They’re really sweet and nice.”

Teachers like Allison Jones foster this sense of security by focusing on creative ways to engage each student.

“Special education students think way outside the box,” Jones said. “One of my students went so far out there with his response to a prompt, and I learned from him.”

“Seeing a-ha! moments up close, every single day,” is one of Jones’ most rewarding experiences. These moments of growth and discovery help her stay motivated even on tough days, such as when she makes a grumpy student smile by dancing to “Thriller” in class.

“If I got problom on works, because the hard level got me confused about, I always got help from the teacher,” sophomore Damien Reaux said.

The teachers understand the challenges that their students face, and they tailor their approach to meet each student’s needs.

“Using differentiated instruction is very important,” Enobong Usanga said. “You’ve got to meet them where they are.”

SAILS teacher Usanga has worked with students on various functioning levels. Whether a student is non-verbal, high-functioning, or anywhere in between, Usanga’s personalized approach helps each student thrive.

“Last summer, I received an email that had pictures and video of one of my former students receiving a four-year degree in Graphic Design from a prestigious college in Chicago,” Usanga said. “I worked so hard with this student, pushing him to his highest potential and knowing how he has transformed just made my day. It still does. Some students can’t say they have a college degree and here one of mine has one. Simply amazing.”

Banks emphasizes that it takes someone with a big heart to work in special education.

“It just takes a person who is willing to do the job, and have an understanding that because of our uniqueness, we as human beings all have value and purpose,” Banks said.

Jones hopes to help her students recognize and embrace their individuality, just as she has done in her own life.

“I want my students to get there a lot more quickly than I did,” Jones said. “It took me decades to realize that being you is far more interesting than striving to be like everyone else.”

Collaboration between teachers and staff is essential to the success of special needs education.

“When you walk on this campus, if anyone walks on this campus, they immediately can see that even if you’re not part of Best Buds, the kids here at Clements treat our IDD kids as just a regular old kid here,” Fay Mayo, long-time sponsor of Best Buddies, said.

The students’ voices, combined with the teachers’ reflections, highlight the exceptional work being done. Teachers like Nona Banks, Enobong Usanga, Allison Jones, and Fay Mayo give their all to help students succeed, not just academically, but in every aspect of their lives.

“I really wish that kids knew how much patience, compassion, and time it takes,” Mayo said. “It’s a very thankless job, and they put in more time and effort into loving those kids than all regular ed teachers put together.”