Special ed high school graduation speech ideas?

Question

Hi everyone. I am a teacher at a school for students with very special needs. Since there are only 2 students graduating (aged 21) there is one teacher speaking for each student. I am this student's PE teacher. The student is going to a community based facility that is for adults with severe disabilities, so she's not going to college or to work, it may be the same type of things that she does here already anyway. Most of the speech is written, but does anyone have ideas of inspirational quotes or phrases that I can add in here and there just to...boost the speech a little... Sometimes the atmosphere here is kind of dull because none of the students speak or can even really move so maybe something humorous that is clean and appropriate for kids and their parents to hear from a teacher? thanks in advance for ideas!!

Answer 1

This is a provocative post that, at first, I felt like I had nothing to contribute ... then after reading your post again and reflecting for a moment, I felt compelled to reply.

First, blessings and kudos to you for becoming a teacher by profession.  Also, I'm humbled -and inspired- by those who work with special needs students.

It seems that, because you have literally worked one-on-one with the student, you will have a treasure trove of special -some humorous, not all- moments to select from to give honor to your graduating student (I get the feeling you already have done that in what you've prepared for your speech).  

I bring that up as a way to say "pause" for a moment before "leaving this personal space" between you and her, and considering quotes, maxims, even jokes from "outside sources."  Of course, quotes and maxims can be powerful and serve with good intentions ... even relevant jokes do the same.  However, as we all know, a quote or joke that is irrelevant -to say nothing of irreverant- can shift an audience mood dramatically ... and not always for the better.

As such, my voice is one of careful caution and subtle suggestion for you to remain at the "well of your -and her- own experiences" and draw your inspiration, shared times, tears and laughter from those very personal interactions.  The "personal touch" -even for humor- just seems to work a little better.

Can you imagine your student listening to you began a story that only she and you know about ... and then, as you build detail and relevance into the story, you glance at her to see an expression of her excitement ... her joy ... her story ... herself ... being told through your lens (her teacher, mentor, friend) ... it doesn't get more powerful than that; it's one of the most rewarding moments in life.

Pause ... reflect ... select.  Have fun, and good luck!

Answer 2

http://www.quoteopia.com/famous.php?quot...

Please check out some quotes from Hellen Keller....hope it helps