Summer is supposed to be fun! With or without a disability, every child deserves a fun summer filled with meaningful activities and the opportunity to practice skills learned in the classroom out in the real world. For the past 10 or so years I have worked in various capacities with individuals with special needs. From working as a swim coach for individuals with varying physical and cognitive abilities to my current job as a high school special education teacher for individuals with autism, working with children with special needs is a calling and a passion, I have never thought of it as a "job". I am smart, creative, enthusiastic, and have a great sense of humor. I have patience and empathy and love to help students with all abilities become more independent, which is different person to person. At work I specialize in transition and social skills, helping my older students find meaningful opportunities for growth outside of school.