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I never imagined that one day I would write a book about my journey. I grew up in the Philippines facing poverty, family hardships, and educational setbacks. At one point, I left school and worked in a candy factory to help support my family. Yet through the encouragement of people who believed in me, I found my way back to education and eventually earned a doctorate degree.
As a Special Education teacher, school leader, and advocate, I have spent more than two decades working with students who are often overlooked, misunderstood, or underestimated. Along the way, I learned that teaching is about far more than academics—it is about hope, resilience, human connection, and believing in people before they fully believe in themselves.
I wrote The Heart of a Special Education Teacher to honor the students, families, mentors, and colleagues who shaped my life and taught me some of my greatest lessons. This book is a reflection on perseverance, inclusion, and purpose, but above all, it is a tribute to the power of one person’s belief to change the course of another person’s life.
My hope is that readers will find inspiration in these pages and be reminded that no obstacle is too great when we are guided by compassion, determination, and hope.
Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite
Vevian Delalamon Salahid’s passion for teaching special needs children took her from her home and family in the Philippines to America, where she began a new life. She shares her journey in The Heart of a Special Education Teacher: A Journey of Resilience, Inclusion, and Purpose. Things were different in America. There were fresh expectations, a new culture, and more emphasis on technology. She lost confidence and was humbled by the experience. Adapting was a slow process. In addition, Special Education teaching is emotionally intensive. The children and their parents also wrestled with their internal struggles, as well as dealing with the labels and misconceptions around special needs children. The author persevered despite burnout and emotional exhaustion. She experienced feelings of guilt toward her family, and the usual doubts and fears of starting afresh in a new country. As her confidence grew, it opened the path to acceptance in the wider community and a sense of finally belonging. She concluded that working with special needs children taught her patience, compassion, courage, and inclusion. She discovered that, in a broader sense, education concerns the need to be acknowledged and included. It is a profession where sincerity beats perfection. It is also about healing.
Vevian Delalamon Salahid came from a poor family. There were few career opportunities in her community. The sacrifices made by her family enabled her to undergo teacher training. She graduated shortly after the death of her father. A teaching career, marriage, and motherhood followed. She was drawn to special needs education. She encouraged awareness, understanding, and patience. In America, she overcame self-doubt and grief. In doing so, she developed emotional independence and resilience. Teaching taught her about life. More than a memoir, this work provides deep insights into the world of special needs children. The writing style is warm and personal. The author shares her highs and lows candidly. Her love of teaching and desire to help children were a source of courage. The Heart of a Special Education Teacher is aimed at parents, educators, and those wanting to teach. It will also appeal to a wider audience. It is an inspiring story filled with hope and upliftment.
