High School Special Education Teacher Shaye Brouse was nominated by district administration to apply for the Arvest “We Love Teachers” award. Mrs. Brouse then had to submit an application explaining why she believed she was nominated for this award and what she would use the money for if she won.
Mrs. Brouse has a Master’s degree in Special Education. She is a wife and mother of two children and balances family life with a passion for sports, outdoor activities, photography, and gardening. She serves as the Special Olympics Coordinator, the Parental Engagement Coordinator, and she is an active member of the school’s Safety Team.
The following is an excerpt from her award application:
“I am honored to be considered for the Arvest “We Love Teachers” award because of my unwavering passion for empowering students with special needs to pursue their dreams. I believe that every student deserves the same transition opportunities as their peers, and I am dedicated to ensuring they have access to resources and support that fosters their growth. My commitment to my students is evident in my daily work; I strive to be a dedicated, loyal, and hardworking advocate for their success. I take pride in creating an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and inspired to achieve their goals, and I am fully committed to helping them write their own success stories. My mission is to empower every student to recognize their worth and to help my fellow teachers understand their purpose in education.”
Mrs. Brouse will be using the money to create an engaging month-long transition project designed for our special needs students, titled “Pathways to Independence.” This initiative will focus on empowering students with essential life skills that promote confidence and independence in everyday situations. Throughout this project, students will participate in practical, hands-on activities that cover a variety of topics, including ordering food at a restaurant, grocery shopping, banking basics, making appointments, and job readiness.
Per Mrs. Brouse, “My goal is to provide students with the tools they need to navigate real-world experiences successfully. By building these skills, I aim to enhance their ability to manage daily tasks, interact with others, and prepare for future employment opportunities. Please join me on this exciting journey as we explore new skills and pave the way for greater independence!”
Thank you Mrs. Brouse for your commitment to our students and Pea Ridge High School! You are an incredible educator and we are so grateful to have you on our team!