You are not the labels you are given.

Helena Ferchau’s Special Education (SPED) students know that each class begins with a few moments of grounding and mindfulness. She understands the importance of starting the day off right and often says, “Each day is a new opportunity.” Once class commences, Ferchau and her students enjoy hearing quiet music of calming frequencies to encourage concentration and positivity. She wants everyone to feel self-regulated, so they are prepared to learn and grow. She hopes to “show every student the love they need,” no matter what.

Ferchau was in SPED classes herself as a child, and it has shaped her teaching style greatly. “I aimed to become the teacher I always needed in school but never had,” she reflected. Now, she is a well-qualified SPED educator and on track to receive a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Northeastern University. Through her academic journey, Ferchau faced a lot of obstacles and doubt, which she began to internalize. But it was through the encouragement of a close friend that a switch flipped in her mind. This support planted a seed in her to encourage others, especially SPED students, that they are capable; “You are not the labels you are given, and everyone is smart in my classroom,” Ferchau stated.

Ferchau rarely has issues with student behavior due to the effective classroom management techniques she has refined over her seven years at Council Grove Elementary. She is often commended by colleagues for the comfort, calmness, and peace of her beach themed classroom.

Ferchau began her career in student mental health and transitioned to SPED teaching due to the success she saw in the high-needs students she worked with. Her charisma, her kindness, and her resilience are evident in her teaching style. Let us all take a moment to appreciate the wonderful work SPED teachers are doing for students each day across the state, starting with Helena Ferchau.