Ryan Magamay
Special Education Teacher (ID-MOD)
Sue Cleveland Elementary
Special Education Teacher (ID-MOD)
Sue Cleveland Elementary
I am a Special Education teacher from the Philippines with a strong passion for supporting learners with diverse needs. I earned my degree in Special Education from Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan.
I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree, also majoring in Special Education, and working on my thesis. My professional practice is guided by evidence-based instruction, including the Strategies for Teaching based on Autism Research (STAR Curriculum) to support student growth in academic, social, and functional life skills.
I am committed to creating a structured, supportive, and engaging learning environment where every student can develop independence, confidence, and meaningful life skills.
My Philosophy
I believe that every learner is capable of growth when instruction is intentional, structured, and responsive to their individual needs. My teaching practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches, primarily the STAR Curriculum (Strategies for Teaching based on Autism Research) and the principles of UKERU, which emphasize safety, connection, and emotional regulation.
In my classroom, learning does not begin with academics alone, it begins with regulation, trust, and readiness. I strongly believe in the principle: “Regulation first, Learning follows!” When students feel safe, calm, and supported, they are better able to access instruction, engage with tasks, and build meaningful skills.
Through STAR-based strategies such as DTT, PRT, and Functional Routines, I provide structured, predictable, and developmentally appropriate instruction. At the same time, I integrate UKERU principles to ensure a calm, respectful, and supportive environment where behavior is understood as communication and students are guided with care rather than control.
I view every behavior, response, and moment as an opportunity for teaching and connection. My goal is not only to teach academic and functional skills, but to help students develop independence, confidence, and emotional regulation that will support them in school, home, and community life.
Ultimately, I am committed to creating a classroom where structure meets compassion, where support meets high expectations, and where every learner is given the conditions to succeed because when regulation is in place, learning naturally follows.
Aside from teaching, I worked as a freelance videographer and photographer in the Philippines, where I captured beautiful moments through wedding films and special events.
I have a passion for storytelling through photos and videos, turning memories into meaningful keepsakes.
I am a proud parent to a cute and adorable daughter who inspires me every day and brought me to my journey in the United States.
I am blessed to share life with my lifetime partner—my best friend, biggest supporter, and partner in crime.
I enjoy exploring creativity, learning new skills, and finding ways to connect with people through both teaching and storytelling.