From August 2011 to 2013, I worked full-time as a Special Education English and Math Teacher at Frederick Douglass Academy III in New York City. Teaching middle and high school students with special needs was an experience filled with learning, growth, and a profound sense of fulfillment. I focused on creating individualized learning plans, adapting my teaching methods to accommodate each student’s unique learning styles and needs in both English and Math studies.

One of my most memorable experiences during this period was coaching the high school soccer team in the Spring 2013 season. This experience enabled me to connect with my students beyond academics, helping build trust, rapport, and fostering a sense of teamwork and sportsmanship among them.

I also had the privilege of founding and leading a film club. Our collective creativity, passion, and dedication culminated in a victory at a student film competition. This achievement instilled in my students a sense of accomplishment, reinforcing the belief that their abilities were not defined by their special needs.

Further enhancing the creative prowess of my students, I taught a game design class. Their hard work, creativity, and innovation were rewarded when they won a FHI360 Gamestar Mechanic competition. This victory was a testament to their potential and my belief in their abilities.

My role as a Special Education teacher at Frederick Douglass Academy III was undoubtedly challenging, yet immensely rewarding. It reaffirmed my commitment to supporting all students, regardless of their individual learning needs. The sense of accomplishment in watching my students succeed, both academically and personally, was a constant source of inspiration and fulfillment. The experiences I garnered during this tenure shaped me into a more effective, empathetic, and dedicated educator.