Every once in a while everyone needs a reminder that what they are doing is important and they make a difference. This is true in any occupation, but especially important in the education field. Some days are difficult and trying, some days are easy and uplifting, but most days are a blessing for those of us lucky enough to be in the education field.
I was having a difficult, trying day recently and all I could think was “some days!” I made it through the day, as we all do, and was glad to put the day behind me. When my husband asked how my day was, I just replied, “Some days!”
Later that evening as I watched television with my laptop in my lap, as I usually do, I noticed an email that came in from an Occupational Therapist that I had recently assisted. I had recommended some apps for a home-bound student, and I was able to send those apps to the parent’s iPad through our mobile management system.
After the day I had, I almost didn’t open the email. The email contained a video of the student engaging with her iPad using a head switch. The email said, “She has not engaged in switches this well ever! Her homebound teacher is very excited! Thanks for your help!”
As I watched the video, it was hard not to cry, realizing what my time and effort had meant to this one student, or starfish as we like to call them! I have asked permission to share the video, hopefully we will be able to get permission so we can share on our social media outlets.
My husband looked over to see what I was watching and asked what I was doing. All I could say was, “Some days…..”
If you would like to try an app that might make a difference, please take advantage of our Lending Library. We can send an iPad with apps installed or if you have your own Apple device (that is not managed by Filewave) we can send it directly to your iPhone, iPad, or iPod.
Sandy Stabenfeldt is currently the ICAM Digital Services Specialist after spending 15 years as a PATINS Coordinator. She has been with the PATINS Project since 2001. Sandy's experience in the field of Assistive Technology(AT) and Accessible Educational Materials(AEM) combined with her background in Education enable her to produce solutions for both teachers and students. Sandy enjoys working in the classroom and especially with all students to help them to succeed and to meet their potential. Sandy is a presenter and trainer at the national, state, and regional levels as well as small local groups or in the classroom.
Comments 1
Some days...are meant to be the most important days. You made a difference to that one,Sandy.
Thanks for sharing.