You Are Worthy – Special Ed Students Make Their Voices Heard

Pete Post ’74, assistant professor of special education, values the ideas and opinions of his students and encourages them each week to make their voices heard. The special education course taught by Post has students actively involved in the education field as they interact with teachers, principals, and education staff members through blog posts and writing contests.

In response to the real-life situations posted by current teachers and principals, students share feedback and thoughts on how they see themselves handling similar situations, which they discuss together in class.

“I think this project makes you really think about what you’re going to write, and it’s a wonderful way to get to know people,” said Post.

Amy Johnstone ’12 of Palos Hills, Illinois, will have the opportunity to share her thoughts with thousands as a recent winner of Christian Home and School’s writing contest. Post asked his students to write a paragraph describing how they intend to empower and encourage their future students and submitted the entries to the publication. Johnstone’s entry was one of six chosen to be published in the magazine’s fall issue.

“It’s important for teachers to share and learn with others,” said Johnstone. “The education field grows that way.”

These opportunities give students valuable material for résumés and unique interactions with those already involved in education and special education.

Though a blog post seems simple, Post tells his students they should be involved for one reason: “You are worthy of being heard.”