Another Para-Professional Note

I am dedicating this blog post to my two Para-Professionals that I work with, Mrs. Rogers and Mr. Nelson. Both have made my year spectacular and I truly mean that I could not have made it without them. Mrs. Rogers has worked at my school for about 15 years. This is her first year in a MOID classroom and (hopefully) her favorite. I have not only established a professional relationship with her, but she has become a sincere friend. She provides support with teaching, planning, managing and sanity survival (haha). She has become a dear friend of mine and I know we will continue to work productively towards the common goal. Mr. Nelson is my other para. He is actually a one-on-one yet has far surpassed his obligations. This is Mr. Nelson's first year in the classroom and his improvements and growth are definitely noted. Mr. Nelson entered the year with the drive to become a special education teacher and I hope and think this has only grown stronger. He has been an excellent male figure for my students and even keeps me in check a lot! I completely support his assertion to become a special educator and hope he will always look to me as a mentor.
I also want to thank my previous Para's from Charleston, SC. Mrs. Smalls, Ms. Fokes and Mr. Washington; you were my crutch for my first two years. I grew so much in those two years and gained the passion that I have now for special education. Mrs. Smalls and Ms. Fokes, I love you and miss you to the point you won't believe. I have both your pictures on my desk and show you both off to everyone.
I thank you all sincerely and am so lucky to have you in my life first and my career second. I hope I am lucky enough to always work with such wonderful people as you.