Rodney Brown

Mr. Brown Reflects on his Career

What are some of the most memorable moments you've experienced during your teaching career? 

"Mr. Brown, You Believed in Me”

Years later, a student finds you—maybe in person or on social media—and thanks you. That kind of affirmation hits different.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a teacher, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges I faced as a special education teacher was working with students in EBD self-contained classrooms who came with deep emotional and behavioral trauma.

I overcame those challenges by staying consistent, showing up every day with patience, and refusing to take their behaviors personally. I built trust by listening more than I talked, setting firm but fair boundaries, and creating a classroom culture where they knew they were seen and valued. My background in mental health also helped me to understand the root of their behavior and not just react to the symptoms.

What advice would you give to new teachers?

If I could give one piece of advice to new teachers, especially those entering special education, it would be this: lead with compassion, not control. Every behavior tells a story—so before you react, ask yourself what that student might be trying to communicate.

Don’t let paperwork and policies steal your passion. Master the IEP process, yes—but remember, you're not just writing plans; you're shaping lives.

Also, find your tribe. Teaching can be isolating if you let it be. Build relationships with colleagues who support you, challenge you, and remind you of your why when the days get long.

And finally, protect your peace. You can't pour from an empty cup. Pray, rest, laugh, reflect—do what you need to do to stay spiritually and emotionally grounded. Because when you’re whole, you’re powerful in the classroom.

Can you share a story of a student whose life you feel you significantly impacted?  Or one who left an impact on you?

There was a student I taught years ago in one of my math classes—back when I was working in a high school inclusion setting. He wasn’t the loudest or the most confident, but there was something about him. I could tell early on that he was watching me—not just as a teacher, but as a man. You can sense it when a young person is quietly looking for direction, for stability, for someone to model manhood, consistency, and integrity.

Now, years later, we’re still in contact. He calls me to talk about life decisions, relationships, and career moves. 

The lessons we teach go far beyond textbooks. Sometimes, the most powerful equations we solve aren’t on the whiteboard—they’re in the lives of students who just needed someone to believe in them long enough to believe in themselves.

Any other thoughts for the road?

The Greatest Curriculum Is Character

Your students will forget some formulas and essays—but they’ll never forget how you made them feel, how you stood in the gap, and how you led by example. That’s legacy-level work.