Substitute / Part Time
As a substitute, I really struggled with the "What Do I say" section. I am also a nurse and recognize the sensitivity that comes with politically correctness and ensuring absolute sensitivity that it is difficult for me to feel clear on what is okay to say and what is not okay to say. I believe in encouraging students but also believe in an upfront approach to difficulty. This concept ought to also incorporate some of the integrity, honesty, and real representation of school expectations and program assignments. There is also the part of me that wants to see everyone succeed.
Is there an easier way to digest this material given my limited role with it and given my tendency towards nursing empathy?
Thanks!
Gloria,
The empathy you have worked hard to develop as a nurse can certainly trip you up in this context. We try to remind folks that students with disabilities are more LIKE every other student than they are different, and should be treated as much LIKE every other student as possible. As such, empathy you feel for any student who is struggling is certainly appropriate to show to students with disabilities. The problem comes in when you find yourself wanting to "protect" students with disabilities more than you would others. For that, I am not sure there is much of a solution except experience.
Dr. Jane Jarrow
