Investing in Special Education Could Save the Job Market
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In today's education system, where diversity is an undeniable reality, I firmly believe that we must view students holistically, considering not only their academic needs but also their emotional and psychological well-being.
By: Luana Cristina Sardinha Bezerra*
In today's education system, where diversity is an undeniable reality, I firmly believe that we must view students holistically, considering not only their academic needs but also their emotional and psychological well-being. With over 5 years of experience in Brazil, I can confidently say that my journey in special education is more than just a career—it's a true calling. My mission is to ensure that all students, regardless of their challenges, have access to a respectful and tailored education that meets their needs.
I believe that a solid and inclusive education, starting in childhood, is crucial for a better future, both in the workforce and in society. Many of the struggles that children and young adults face today—such as ADHD, anxiety, and other emotional issues—stem from a lack of proper support during their early years. When implemented effectively, special education can be a game-changer in the lives of these students, and that's what I strive to provide every single day.
For a student to feel truly included, it’s essential to address their psychological and emotional differences. Inclusion is not just about academic adaptation; it's about genuine care and support. Over the course of my career, I've aimed to do more than just teach academic content. My focus has always been on creating an environment where students feel valued and capable of achieving their goals. And this doesn’t just happen through content delivery—it requires special attention to their emotional needs as well.
I’ll never forget a student with an intellectual disability who, at first, isolated himself in class and showed deep insecurity. We worked together on building trust, using activities that helped him not only learn but also develop his emotional skills. One of the most meaningful moments came when we created a puppet together, symbolizing growth and self-esteem. When that student smiled for the first time, realizing the puppet’s "hair" had finally grown, I knew we were on the right track.
This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of an education that takes into account not just cognitive difficulties, but also emotional challenges. For a student to thrive, they need support in both areas. That’s why I constantly strive to innovate and adapt my teaching, developing personalized pedagogical activities to meet each student's needs.
I also believe that inclusive education is a collective effort. Collaboration between teachers, families, and schools is essential to making the necessary adaptations and ensuring that every student receives the best possible support. In today’s world, where emotional disorders are increasingly common, our role as educators extends beyond teaching subjects. We must also nurture our students' mental health, preparing them for a future that is more empathetic and inclusive.
My mission has always been to create an educational environment that goes beyond the traditional classroom. In every story of overcoming obstacles and every smile earned, I see the positive impact of a committed approach to inclusion. I know that the transformation we seek in education begins with each student we help to realize their potential. And that quiet revolution is what I continue to build every day—through education that doesn’t just teach but also nurtures and prepares students for the future.
Luana Cristina Sardinha Bezerra is a Special Education Teacher with over 5 years of experience, specializing in students with intellectual disabilities and autism. She holds a degree in Pedagogy from the University of Mogi das Cruzes (UMC) and several postgraduate qualifications in Neuropsychopedagogy and Psychopedagogy. She is currently pursuing advanced studies in child development and has completed ABA training at the Child Behavior Institute of Miami (CBI). Has a Degree in Special Education from the International University Center (UNINTER). Luana is committed to inclusive education, focusing on personalized support to help every student thrive. Her work emphasizes the importance of addressing psychological needs for a more inclusive future.