For the last 17 years, Linda Felsman has worked with special-education students at Unity West Elementary School in the district she grew up attending.
Of her days as a Unit 7 student, Felsman remembers how much the encouragement of teachers affected her, and now, she and her three teacher’s aides work to impart that positive attitude onto their students.
“She works tirelessly for our students with special needs, always going above and beyond ensuring each student is learning and growing,” Principal Lanee Reichert said.
I find my work important because ... All children have different needs when it comes to learning. As their teacher, it is my responsibility to provide students with the resources, tools and guidance needed so they can develop skills for academic success and daily life. Every child deserves someone who sees their potential.
I became a special-education teacher because ... when I was a studen, I remember how meaningful a kind word or gesture from a teacher was and how it really boosted my confidence. I wanted to pass that on.
When I graduated from college with an elementary education degree, my first job was with a group of special education students, and I knew I had found my place.
I went back to school to complete my special education certification in order to help students find success at school. Plus, I love that no two days are the same. It never gets boring or monotonous.
My most fulfilling moments on the job are when ... I see a student’s excitement when they realize they’re able to do something they couldn’t do before, or when they learn to advocate for themselves about what they need to be successful.
My favorite teachers are ... the group of teacher aides I share my classroom with: Kristy Cloud, Sandy Rector and Stacy Thorne. These ladies positively impact our students and help to create a safe, fun and nurturing classroom. I feel very fortunate to be able to work with these wonderful teachers every day.
If I weren’t a teacher, I would be ... a movie critic.
— Anthony Zilis