“Why I Teach” — Jamie DiCarlo, Stephanie Rosa & Heather Marzullo

Teachers Change Lives at:

#‎ThankATeacher | ‪#‎WhyITeach


 

Jamie DiCarlo

Jamie DiCarlo

Jamie DiCarlo

Why do I teach? That is a question I am often asked, especially when people find out that I teach students with autism spectrum disorders. I will tell you one thing, it is not because “I am a special person” or “I have a lot of patience” like most people say when I tell them my profession. It is because every child has the right to learn. I love reaching the kids that nobody else can reach and seeing them become positive members of the school community.

That is why I teach, students need to know that there is someone there for them no matter what, to advocate for those without a voice, support them when they feel as though no one else can, and to love them unconditionally. I teach for my students, to make their world a better place, even if it is just for the school day.

Jamie DiCarlo
Special Education Teacher
Seminole Elementary
Tampa, FL

See Jamie on ED’s Facebook and Instagram pages.‬


 

Stephanie Rosa

Stephanie Rosa

Stephanie Rosa

In second grade I had big goals to go to Harvard to become a dolphin trainer and an Olympic swimmer. Even though I didn’t make it close to Harvard or the Olympics, I realized that having goals is extremely important, so I knew that becoming a teacher would allow me to motivate other children of all races, religions, and backgrounds. Now, I work on a military base where students are constantly moving from base to base and have hectic lives.

I love when each student walks in and sees me and my smile and can relax, feel comfortable, and have a stable environment. It is an amazing feeling when they smile and tell me about their future goals and new adventures. I love being their biggest cheerleader and will always help them achieve whatever goal they set, even if it is becoming valedictorian of Harvard!

Stephanie Rosa
1st Year Teacher | Fourth Grade Special Education
Major George Welch Elementary School
Dover, DE

Graduate of a SUNY Fredonia program that received an OSEP-funded grant:
84.325T: Special Education Preservice Program Improvement Grants

#getmotivated
#setgoals

See Stephanie on ED’s Facebook and Instagram pages.‬


Heather Marzullo

Heather Marzullo, 6th grade ELA/MCL, HW Smith School, Syracuse, NY

Heather Marzullo

Helping students realize their potential and see what they can be… that’s the most rewarding thing in the world. Showing children their value and making them see what I see when I look at them-that’s why I teach. Getting a child that has never wanted to pick up a book become so immersed in the plot—that’s why I teach. Every day I want to give my kids what they need in order to thrive and if I do my job—then they can do theirs. Educating our future creates sustainability and ensures that values that matter like respect and having empathy are carried on.

I feel extremely fortunate that so many parents share their most precious gifts with me, and it is my hope that I can send them out into this world motivated to not only gain educational success but also to understand that nice matters.

Heather Marzullo
6th grade ELA/MCL
H.W. Smith School
Syracuse, NY

Graduate of a SUNY Cortland program that received an OSEP-funded grant:
84.325T: Special Education Preservice Program Improvement Grants


Teachers Change Lives at:

#‎ThankATeacher | ‪#‎WhyITeach

2 Comments

  1. Special ed teachers are truly special individuals. I loved that Heather mentioned that “nice matters” because it absolutely does! Preparing young people for a quality future is a big responsibility, and even more so for students with disabilities. Teaching them to self advocate is so important! I learned from this guide http://www.onlineschoolscenter.com/navigating-online-education-for-students-with-disabilities/ that students must take the initiative in making sure appropriate accommodations will be made for them in college.

  2. Thank you for your thoughts. I like teaching for many reasons. I like to help students find joy in learning and excitement about ideas. This opens many types of paths for people and supports them in becoming the people they want to be. I enjoy encouraging, uplifting, and building confidence. Also, teaching gives students tools and skills for living life and building a future.

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