Cailin McMahon

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a special education teacher to help give students with developmental disabilities a better quality of life. I became a teacher to advocate for students with limited communication skills, that cannot advocate for themselves. It had been such a rewarding teaching experience to help families that struggle to teach their children basic daily living skills, & watching the progress they make transition into their home lives. I became a teacher to provide support to families & students in need

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teacher experiences was when working as a teacher at a residential facility with students with severe autism. I worked with a student on communication skills to promote functional communication during stressful times. The student began independently requesting space or a break during times of stress instead of engaging in maladaptive behavior. The student continued with this and his severe self injury decreased. Being able to tell his family this was a wonderful feeling.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the $25,000 to donate some clothing, sensory items and toys to students at the school that I currently work at, which is a non-profit school for students with autism. I would also like to further my education in autism research.