James Johnson is a senior Intervention Specialist teacher candidate at
Ashland University. Special Education is a unique field that takes commitment and passion to be successful. When James first enrolled at Ashland University, his major was general education. During his time working in an after-school program, he encountered a student who changed his life. James says this student challenged him. She had autism and demonstrated behavioral disturbances. Once the behavioral disturbances were under control, her mindset would change to the incomprehension of things going on around her. There we so many aspects to her autism and James was able to identify certain aspects she was going through. Being able to tap into this understanding, James is able to see students grow and experience progress. James says the goal as an intervention specialist is not just about being a teacher but is about getting students into a classroom; helping them move closer to their goals.
James’ experience working for five years in an after-school program led him to his current job in a special education role. Children at this school come out of numerous school districts. This school provides specialized services. He has been working Kindergarten through 5th grade in the mornings and switches to high school in the afternoons. He recently started working with a first grader who has the cognitive ability of an infant.
To get where he is today James took 21 credit hours and work 40 hours a week to maintain a household and work as an entrepreneur. He says he is always happy and smiling and looking at his goals as an inspiration. James will graduate in May and is pursuing teaching licensure to serve as an intervention specialist. His goal is to be a principal. He would like to stay where he is currently employed or work in a public school district to gain additional experience or to continue to grow as a professional and eventually apply for grad school.
When asked what advice he would give to students he said, “Continue. The word in my mind I’ve been using. Don’t let anything stop you; continue any plans you have or have on the backburner. If you haven’t started something, just continue pursuing it. If you don’t feel like you’re ready and you get that one opportunity, just take it. It could be your perfect opportunity. Persevere.”