All students, regardless of anything, should be given an equal opportunity to learn and access education. Their job is to come to school and learn; our job as educators is to make sure we meet them where they are and ensure that they learn and grow. My goal is to guide students to become independent, self-sufficient learners who can grow mentally, socially, academically, and emotionally. Every student starts off at a certain level, and we meet them where they are academically. We practice and modify whatever is necessary to bring them close to or even above grade level.
As a special education educator, this entails planning strategically, collaborating closely with general education teachers, specialists, and families, highlighting student strengths, setting goals, and implementing the necessary modifications for our students. We also need to keep them as engaged as possible, while also having them realize the real-world application of skills. All in all, every individual is entitled to equal educational opportunities that cater to their individual needs.