Beyond The Classroom: A Belvidere Teacher’s Heartwarming Impact On Special Needs Education

What makes a great special education teacher? Kayla Siemers from Belvidere North High School exemplifies dedication and care. Read her inspiring journey!

97ZOK Teacher of the Week

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Congratulations Kayla Siemers from Belvidere North High School in Belvidere, Illinois

Christi Starr nominated Kayla, she writes,

Mrs. Siemers has been an incredible Special Education teacher for my son this year, consistently going above and beyond to ensure his well-being both in her classroom and throughout the school. Gavin faces numerous challenges, including Epilepsy, Autism, developmental delays and other medical conditions. This Spring, he underwent a temporal craniotomy to help manage his seizures. During his recovery, Mrs. Siemers made sure Gavin felt supported and cared for. She organized thoughtful cards from classmates to cheer him up during his hospital stay and stayed in touch with us regularly while he was out of school for a month.

When Gavin returned to school, Mrs Siemers seamlessly put all the necessary accommodations in place, demonstrating extraordinary attention to detail and care. She closely monitors him for behavioral and medical concerns and immediately communicates any updates to us. Gavin genuinely loves going to school every day, and knowing the Mrs. Siemers is looking out for him provides us great peace of mind. Her dedication and compassion have truly helped Gavins thrive in more ways than one, and we are endlessly grateful for her.

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School days are very different for special education teachers, and what fills their hearts at the end of a workday is very different from what a teacher in most classrooms experiences. Listen to what fills Kayla's heart in our conversation below.

97ZOK Teacher of the Week-Kayla Siemers from Belvidere North HS in Belvidere, IL by Steve Shannon

As Teacher of the Week, Kayla was surprised with a cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes and money to spend at WM Day Spa Salon.

You can nominate your favorite teacher HERE. Click HERE to see past Teachers of the Week.

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