When typically considering classes to be an aide for, one’s mind might veer towards subjects such as English, math or social studies. While these are among common aide courses, junior Lindsey Antonowich assists in the seventh-hour special education class.
Last year, when making her schedule, Antonowich had an open hour. Counselor Jana Crittenden informed her of the available position and Antonowich jumped at the offer.
“I wanted to do something for my job with special needs,” Antonowich said. “I was just like, ‘Yeah, I’ll do that’.”
Just like an aide for any other subject, Antonowich assists the teachers and paras with anything they might need, including ELA center support. Special education teacher Michelle Schrag said having an aide not only helps them, but the students as well.
“It actually allows our kids to have more exposure to the general education population, which is really really nice. It helps them make friends outside of the classroom. The aides are so helpful because they are hands-on and just being there for the kids,” Schrag said.
Not only has her assistance benefitted special education teachers and students, Antonowich said that the opportunity has taught her multiple lessons as well as had a reflection on her personal character.
“[Aiding for special education has taught me] patience, definitely,” Antonowich said. “Also, communication and more than how we can just talk to each other normally. It’s just different.”
In addition to providing lessons and new friendships, aiding has granted Antonowich with experience in her desired future career. She wants to pursue something in either education or therapy.
“[I like having the general population here] especially if someone is interested in going into education and they’re like maybe trying to figure out what field of education they want to go in to, but it also just teaches them more about compassion and kindness,” Schrag said.