Aldine ISD Celebrates Special Education Day, December 2

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Education is a Journey: AISD special education teachers and specialists embrace the role they play in helping students thrive and grow during their time in the district.

“Every STUDENT can learn, just not on the same day or in the same way.” — George Evans

Wednesday, December 2 is National Special Education Day, which marks the 45th Anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), a landmark civil rights law that ensures states and school districts provide a free appropriate public education to all children with disabilities.

Special education teachers and specialists go above and beyond to ensure students are learning and growing every day. They are a great support to students, families, and staff. In addition to teachers and specialists, paraprofessionals, assessment personnel, and special education counselors all form part of the team.

“Special education has a special place in my heart. One of my children was a special education student who benefitted from amazing educators who dedicate their lives to helping students thrive at their own pace. I hope everyone takes a moment to thank special education educators for all the hard work they do,” Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney said. “We appreciate the care and attention you provide.”

Special Education Executive Director Tracy Bailey stated the district’s program helps students grow academically, as well as socially and emotionally. Students learn how to regulate their emotions and develop coping skills. They learn how to make friendships and connections. The goal is to give students general classroom exposure and place them in an inclusive environment. The program strives to provide students with disabilities choices and opportunities.

“It’s more than academics,” said Bailey. “It’s about the whole child. Some of our students have varying degrees of needs. We take them from where they are and build from there. We teach to their strengths and accommodate their weaknesses. They learn that everyone has strengths and struggles and that everyone has something to offer society. The students’ self-confidence increases as they embrace challenges and learn new things.”

For self-sufficient students, the teachers prepare them for the real world by preparing them to be college-ready or building job skills they can use once they graduate from Aldine.

Bailey added that special education classrooms are like any other classrooms, but the learning environment gives special education students the time to grow and be themselves. “We want the students to be proud of who they are and the value they have in the world.”

The community is encouraged to share their appreciation for special education teachers on social media. The district also encourages educators to share why they love working with special needs students. To ensure AISD staff see the posts, please use #AldineSpecialEducation and #EveryChild.