And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men. Colossians 3:23, NKJV
Teaching special needs children is not always easy, but it is always worth it. Every small step they take and every little breakthrough brings a kind of joy that words cannot fully express.
As a volunteer classroom assistant in a special education school for the past six months, I have been journeying alongside a group of wonderful children. Each day is different. Some days are filled with laughter, while others come with their own challenges. But through it all, I have learned to see progress in the tiniest things—holding a crayon correctly, making eye contact, or sitting still during story time.
But one moment stands out above the rest…there was a little boy in the class who never spoke to me directly. I would greet him every day with a smile, call his name gently, and patiently support him during lessons. He would look at me sometimes, but he never said a word.
Then one quiet afternoon, as I was helping him pack up, he looked up at me and softly said, “Teacher Rochelle.”
I froze for a second, unsure if I heard it right. But he said it again. “Teacher Rochelle.”
Tears welled up in my eyes. After six months of waiting, hoping, and loving without expecting anything in return, he said my name. At that moment, I felt the deepest joy and the greatest honor.
That is the beauty of teaching special needs kids. Progress may be slow, but every victory is deeply meaningful. They are full of love, and once they let you in, it changes you forever.
I am proud to be called “Teacher Rochelle.”
Lord, thank You for the gift of every child You place in my life. Help me to see them through Your eyes—with patience, love, and hope. May my heart always be open, and my hands always ready to serve. Use me, Lord, to be a reflection of Your grace and kindness. And in every small moment, remind me that what I do for these little ones, I do for You. Amen.
Copyright Rochelle Sobrepena.
Rochelle serves as a volunteer classroom assistant teacher at a faith-based preschool and special education school in Singapore. She is also a proud mother of two wonderful daughters who continue to inspire her every day.
