Normal West provides a level 1, 2, and 3 Special Education Program like no other, yet while most students at West know about the program, no one really knows what goes on inside the classrooms of this program.

Veteran Learning Behavior Specialist, Kristy Fairfield is rightfully proud of the Special Education Program that she helps to run.

“Our kids want to be included. Our kids want to live a teenage life just like you guys,” Fairfield stated.

Students in the program go through a school day from 8:30-3:30pm, like usual, with the difference being earlier dismissal times to transitioning between classrooms. Classes for students in the program consist of academic as well as life skills learning.

Amongst the math equations and reading assignments, these students also learn how to do and fold laundry, cook, order meals at a restaurant, behave at a restaurant, and express their own appropriate emotions.

Upon stepping into each classroom, it is hard to ignore the beautiful colors and numerous things to look at. I was in room 126 when I noticed the vibrant atmosphere.

“They need visuals, they need picture support. Some kiddos can become overwhelmed so we have to be careful, but they need that visual support to be able to get through their day, to know what day it is, to know what class is up next,” Fairfield commented.

These students need more than what a normal classroom can provide, and each classroom and schedule is specifically designed to tailor to their needs.

So, next time you walk by a classroom that looks a little different, take a step inside, ask questions, say hi, or maybe just look and wonder.

Who knows? You could be the next Mrs. Fairfield, where all it took was one look and one amazing teacher to change everything.