When I Became "Special"

About the Book

Teaching is a profession that requires passion and dedication to students. In When I Became “Special,” author Daisy Torres-Petrovich discusses her passion, her “call” to teach special education, and the commitment it requires to effectively educate children.

In this compilation of life experiences filled with personal anecdotes, examples, and ideas, When I Became “Special” details what it takes to become a special education teacher. Loaded with advice and tips, Torres-Petrovich covers everything from enrolling in college to examining teacher personality traits to dealing with classroom behavior issues. She extols the importance of goal setting, of gaining real-life experiences, and of understanding the power of flexibility in the classroom.

When I Became “Special” also includes uplifting stories about some of Torres-Petrovich’s former students and examples of special student work. She not only talks about the challenges of teaching, but the many rewards and successes that are an integral part of this profession.

About the Author

Daisy Torres-Petrovich received a bachelor’s degree in communications from Northeastern Illinois University, followed by a master’s degree in special education from Dominican University. She currently lives in Chicago with her two sons and her husband, Bill. Torres-Petrovich continues her journey as a special education teacher for the Chicago Public Schools.