The other day I had an opportunity to sit down and talk with a thirty-year veteran educator Mrs. Trisha Jones-McGreevy. This former math specialist turned elementary math teacher and now special education pedagogue provided a first-hand insight to her field.
As we chatted about her day-to-day operations, including the seemingly unending string of paperwork, meetings. We discussed the particularly daunting task of working with special needs children, which can prove taxing even for experienced professionals, she remarked, “I love my job, and I love my students, that’s what keeps me going.”
Although we specialize in two very different fields, our discussions on understanding and guiding student behavior resonated with me. “My relationships with my students are based on a mutual respect,” she said, “I refuse to belittle or disrespect my students. They know what my standards for their behavior are and that I’ll make sure to hold them to it.” The importance of consequence was clear; students have to be held accountable for their actions, both positive and negative.
Nearing the end of our conversation, she offered a stirring piece of advice; “Some days may be difficult, and certainly there will be situations that truly try your patience. Just remember your love for your work and the amazing students you’ll meet and you’ll be fine.”
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