ABSTRACT
Special education teachers are experiencing burnout and leaving the profession. Too often, special educators become encumbered by the overwhelming nature of their work and fail to see the outcomes they hope for among their students. This chapter offers research and practical strategies to help special educators realize that their work matters and has a lasting positive impact, even if they do not get to observe the immediate fruition of their labors. Readers will learn practical strategies to ensure daily fun in the classroom, as well as suggestions to shift their definition of success with students. Special education teachers have the chance to help students write a new story for their lives, which can change outcomes for the better. The chapter includes multiple reproducible activities teachers and students can complete to directly apply the content. What special educators do matters, every day. This chapter helps readers realize the potential positive impact of their special education practice if they bring fun and student empowerment to the forefront. It also invites them to reflect on the many strengths they have to offer in order to support their sense of self-efficacy.
