As the director of a Special Ed program, I have the privilege of meeting some exceptional individuals. These people have similar jobs to my own, yet they easily work double or triple my weekly hours, with virtually no materials or staff. These individuals, I believe, are the unsung heroes of Special Ed. They are the parents of my students.

Having recently conducted Fall IEP meetings, I was struck by the parents of three special-needs children—parents whom I doubt have missed one IEP conference since their 12th grader was in kindergarten. I was awed by the mother of 13 children whose family is larger than my entire program, yet who single-handedly holds positions as administrator, teacher, therapist, nurse, and secretary. I was inspired by the gentleman who took off from work happily to plan for and advocate on behalf of his niece (through marriage!) as if she were his own.

A few weeks prior to those IEP conferences, I ran a program about transitioning from high school. When brainstorming about speakers for the evening, I thought of one woman who has no formal training or professional experience, but whom I thought would be ideal for the engagement nonetheless. As parent of a recent alum, this woman had invested endless hours researching, investigating, and planning for her daughter’s transition. Ultimately, I could not have conceived of a more appropriate choice for a speaker. Her parenting skills, advocacy efforts, and personal level of investment in her daughter’s success are inspiring.

Teaching is often perceived as a thankless task. Yet, as Chanukah approaches, I am reminded of the various Chanukah presents I have received from parents over the years in appreciation for my educating their children. And I wonder: When was the last time a mother was thanked for her role in the process? I work with a child for four years. The parents are in it for the long haul. My job is education; they must oversee the rest. I work 40 hours a week, while parents clock over 100. And they do not get the Chanukah presents or shalach manos, or end-of-the-year letters of appreciation.

To the parents who care for their children day in and day out. To those who research diagnoses, treatments, programs, and therapists. Those who ask questions regarding medication, inclusion, yeshiva vs. public school, and the balance between the needs of one child and those of his or her siblings. To the mothers and fathers who stay awake late at night worrying about their kids. And to the parents who have not taken a vacation together in as long as they can remember…

To each and every one of you, I commend you for your tireless dedication, patience, and love. To the unsung heroes: Yasher koach and thank you.

Shira Greenland is the director of the Ramat Sinai program in Elizabeth, NJ.

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