As a former athlete with a degree in physical education, Brittany Harrington figured her course was set. That is until she worked with special needs children.
“I had students from student-teaching who had behavior issues and I just loved working with them,” Harrington said. “I thought they were fun and deserving of attention and time.”
Today, Harrington teaches those children at Lincoln Elementary School.
Harrington graduated from Ottawa University where she did both cross country and track.
After earning her degree, Harrington was a paraprofessional in Chanute and later worked for the ANW Cooperative. She was already familiar with Lincoln due to time as a para and was happy to find an opening for special education.
Harrington works for both ANW Cooperative and USD 257 as a teacher.
She has enjoyed how every day is different in the classroom. There may be uncertainty with each day, but she embraces the challenge.
“I didn’t know what to expect with my kids,” Harrington said. “I kind of like that challenge being able to make something on the go and adapt to them. Building the relationship is my favorite part.”
Her current position requires more planning than before.
“It’s been a roller coaster, but a fun one,” Harrington said. “When you’re a paraprofessional, you do a lot more hands on. You’re with the kids a lot more versus being the teacher and getting everything ready. You’re setting up the backbone for them instead of just doing the plan. I like being able to help make those plans and find out what’s the best setting for the children.”
She said her responsibilities are like a normal teacher, but the teaching format is different.
Harrington works with three paraprofessionals and has five students in total.
Harrington said her job is stressful at times, but it is always worth being there every day for her kids.
“I want to be the best teacher I can for my kids,” Harrington said. “I want my kids to be with their peers and learn as much as possible.”
Teacher for students with special needs finds calling
