The Independent Learning Centre

During my first practicum, I volunteered in the Independent Learning Centre (ILC).  I worked mainly with an amazing student who was having some trouble with her English and History credits.  During my volunteering before I applied for teacher education, I had worked with some special education students and I had forgotten how truly rewarding it can be.  The student I worked with was a very bright girl who just had some trouble focusing.  Reading and writing together, she managed to push through most of her English credit and completed several history assignments which may not have been otherwise completed.   Going in, I must say I had my preconceived notions about the abilities of students in the ILC to analyze and comprehend certain concepts.  I was pleasantly surprised at how with a little bit of guidance, my student was able to not only comprehend but truly analyze and apply the concepts to the real world.

Of course I have to give amazing praise to Mrs. P and Mr. B who are the supervising teachers of the ILC.  Their guidance and kind words are really inspiring and I was so fortunate to have spent even just a little bit of time with them and view the amazing work they do to make sure all their students succeed.

I was very sad to leave and was thrilled at the little surprise party that the students and teachers in the ILC gave me on my last day.  To the students that I worked with, I know that you will succeed if you just keep on the path that you were on when I left and remember I am always here for extra help or questions.

My work in the ILC has truly inspired me to continue working in the area of special education and I hope to work alongside more amazing students and teachers in the future.