This week’s assigned reading and video flooded my body with emotions. Growing up, I really struggled with school. Having naturally excelled in other pursuits, I was left feeling discouraged and dreaded the thought of returning to school. I remember the exact day (November, 5th), just shortly after the school year began when I was asked to stay behind after the dismissal bell rang. I, along with two other international students was handed a letter, which I was firmly instructed to give to my parents. After being questioned by my friends, who waited outside the door, I felt pressured to open the envelope. Inside read, “Tianna’s progress in the fourth grade is of concern, and we’re hoping to receive your parental support to enroll her in an education assistance program.” To date, I can still remember that exact feeling, watching the shocked reaction made by my friends. My heart dropped, my face went beet red, and the strength it took to hold back my tears was incomparable. The negative stigma associated with these programs, made me feel hopeless as I knew I couldn’t face the criticism made of by my peers. However, the following school year, I was enrolled in grade 5 with a teacher named “Ms. Magic”, and let me tell you, she was truly magic in her ways to ensure every student felt worthy, supported and destined for greatness. To date, I owe my current academic standing to her, for she gave me the courage, self-worth and motivation to tackle my educational barriers head-on. She felt no need to separate me from my classmates or supply me with simpler material, instead, she played to my strong suits, giving me the confidence to work at my weak points. More teachers should learn the techniques utilized by my grade five teachers who was able to achieve the best outcome for me, in the not so easy circumstances. I don’t agree with the current structure set out in schools, by isolating children with educational disabilities from their classmates. By continuing this approach, we are facilitating a “them vs us” dynamic. I must owe the “wow” moment to Shelley Moore, for standing up to shortcomings in educational instruction for those living with learning disabilities. Furthermore, after indulging in “Shelly Moores: Transforming Inclusive Education” video, I wonder if her bowling analogy will help to create conversation and discussion amongst teachers, to empower teachers alike the education to providing solutions suitable and inclusive to all.