Gene Denton Essay 8

A need in my community that I was previously unaware of until last year was the shortage of special education educators and advocates. It’s easy to overlook a lack of support when you are not directly affected by it. When something does not impact you personally, it can feel distant or invisible. That changed for me when I became part of this community at the start of my junior year. I immediately noticed how isolated many students in the special education community felt, both inside and outside the classroom. While our school offers academic support, there was no space created for these students to truly be themselves, form friendships, and feel like they belonged. They often existed on the outside of the typical high school experience, watching it happen instead of fully participating in it.

The special education community at my school had never had a club recognizing and including them. A club is not just a name on a poster; it represents belonging, friendships, meetings with fun activities, and field trips that create meaningful learning experiences. It provides a safe environment where students can build confidence and social skills. Without that, many students were missing out on the full high school experience. They lacked opportunities to connect with peers in structured but welcoming settings. Realizing this opened my eyes to how important advocacy truly is. I saw that sometimes the greatest needs are not academic, but social and emotional.I took it upon myself to organize a club with another co-chair and sponsor so we could begin building the sense community that had been missing for far too long. Through this experience, I learned that leadership is not about recognition, but about service and standing up for people whose voices are often overlooked.

After high school, I plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in education, followed by a master’s degree in special education. Meeting amazing people with value to my future along the way. I want to dedicate my career to supporting students who learn differently and ensuring they receive not only academic instruction, but encouragement, patience, and respect. My future education will give me the tools to better understand diverse learning styles, individualized education plans, and effective classroom strategies that help all students succeed. However, my impact will extend beyond academics. With advanced training, I will be able to advocate and create an inclusive classroom where students with disabilities are brought together meaningfully rather than separated unnecessarily. I hope to collaborate with general education teachers to create lesson plans that are adaptable and accessible for everyone. I also want to work closely with families, helping them navigate resources and feel confident in their child’s education. Letting them know there is support and handfuls of people who care. Many parents of students in special education feel overwhelmed or unheard, and I want to be someone who listens and provides guidance. A friendly face to all.

In addition, I plan to continue building community-based programs similar to the club I helped establish. Whether through after-school programs, peer mentoring groups, or inclusive extracurricular activities, I want students to feel valued and visible. Education is not only about grades, but it is also about shaping confident and capable individuals who believe in themselves. By becoming a special education teacher and advocate, I will help address the need for inclusion and support within my community. I want future students to walk into school knowing they belong, knowing their differences are strengths, and knowing they have someone in their corner. Experiencing a good and meaningful high school time. One that impacts a kid for life. Through higher education and continued advocacy, I am committed to making that vision a reality.