I am a special education provider in an integrated co-teaching environment. Naturally, I encounter students who struggle-that's why they have and IEP. Half the battle isn't that they "don't want to" per se, but they don't believe they can. It can be difficult for them to realize their potential, but chances are once you show them something that is on their level, they become much more motivated to take charge of their learning. My philosophy lies in the "can-do" arena, but my challenge is to make the content accessible (most of my students have very limited literacy.) Being honest with them and giving them positive words of encouragement are my biggest professional assets.
