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[changeling0203]

I'm always thrilled when my students like me. I'm subbing in an adult (ages 18-22) special needs program for a month. They're all really chill, except one guy that was described as "explosive and destructive" with some "self-injurious" tendencies if he doesn't get his way. But he's about 5 feet tall so I'm not too worried

Comments

[grumpydoctor]

you are a saint

[livepoetically]

^100% agree. You are so awesome and I feel privileged to know you. Not just for this, but this is like icing on the cake.

[changeling0203]

I've said this a few times to a few people, but I really wouldn't do this job if I didn't enjoy it. When I have my own classroom someday you're welcome to come by and check it out.

The only reason people don't work with the disabled more is because there's a stigma against disabilities (and also money, there's not exactly much money in it, and the workload is a little heavier and a little more complicated than regular teaching). And it's a learned behavior. Same as 4-year-olds don't care who's black and who's white, they don't care if one kid has Downs and one doesn't as long as he shares his Hot Wheels at recess. So if you're congratulating me for not hating on people with mental disabilities then you may as well congratulate me for not being bigoted in other areas.

[grumpydoctor]

it's just that it's a shitload of necessary work that sounds kind of unpleasant to the rest of us

[mackelzinzie]

its so great that you are doing this!