I had the opportunity to work with a student who had strengths and stretches due to being diagnosed with a learning divers-ability. Before this practicum, I had never really worked with a student directly that has an IEP.

My IEP student needed lots of assistance with reading and writing. She had so much perseverance and wanted to try things on her own, which I let her because she was able to make mistakes, learn, and grow. This was a learning curve for me as I had to let her try things on her own but I also knew she needed guidance and help with certain tasks. Since this was a new experience to me, I did not always give her exactly what she needed as she was an independent student. Since I am a new educator I am learning how to manage the entire classroom therefore I told the students that they need to advocate for themselves if they need help. Although I take my time and check in with every student throughout the day, I may not see or be told about some of the struggles that students are facing. My IEP student began to advocate for herself when she needed assistance while also trying to do things on her own. I was also able to do reading assessments on each of my students, including her which allowed me to focus on what areas she needed help with. I am thankful for my experience and will continue to grow and assure students feel valued and heard in the classroom.