Career & Education continues its look at careers that cater to individuals with special needs with an examination of the work of the shadow or student aide.

IT is perhaps one of the least known and less glamorous careers that cater to children with special needs, and perhaps moreso those who struggle with autism spectrum disorder.

Still, the ‘shadow’ is one of the more vital, certainly as special needs children take on the challenge of acquiring an education, whether in or outside of the formal classroom setting.

Career & Education talks this week with Elease Thomas, who has worked as a shadow for more than five years, helping between 15 and 20 children over that period.

“I go to school with the child. I sit near him to monitor his work. If he doesn’t understand a topic/subject, I will pull him aside and break it down for him. I also help to stimulate or boost language and assist in social interaction with other children,” says Thomas, describing her work.

But there is more to this career option, as the 24-year-old tells it. Thomas is the holder of seven CXC subjects, and a diploma in travel and tourism administration from the Professional Training Institute. She intends to attend St Joseph’s Teacher’s College shortly to pursue a first degree in primary education.

Who is a shadow/student aide?

A shadow is someone who works with a special needs child one-on-one, at school and/or at home.

What is the value of the work that you do?

My work is very valuable in the life of a special needs child as I am needed to help reinforce lessons being taught — breaking down what the teacher teaches, ensuring the child understands the concepts. The child would not be able to function to his/her fullest potential without the intervention of a shadow/student aide.

What prompted your entry into the field?

It was an opportunity that presented itself. I was a teachers’ aide at a pre-school and was asked by the principal to work with a special needs child as his previous shadow had left for college. I accepted the position and upon the end of my time — the child was moving on to a prep school — I asked to continue working with him as I had fallen in love with him.

What are the academic requirements for entry into the field?

HEART levels 1 and 2 in early childhood education. Being a pre-trained teacher would also be a plus.

What other skills and/or competencies are required for the field?

You should definitely have a pleasant personality, patience and be able to think creatively when teaching.

What do you most enjoy about your job?

Looking back at where the child is coming from to where he is now; seeing the great improvements and strides he has made over the years — academically, socially and verbally; it’s a fulfilling feeling.

What are the challenges you face on the job?

Now that my student is mainstream in a normal school setting, the challenge is to keep him focused as best as I can when the teacher is teaching. There is also the related challenge of keeping distractions for the other children at a minimum level. For example, he might have a sudden outburst occasionally or a tantrum, which his classmates may find funny.

How much can you earn as a shadow on an annual basis?

A shadow can make between $360,000 and $500,000 annually.

With your experience as a shadow, what employment options are open to you?

Working with children in a school setting. Working with children at home. Working in Government centres for children with special needs. (There is also the option of) working in child therapy centres.

Why would you advise anyone to get into the field?

I would encourage persons to enter this field because more children are being born with disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and persons are becoming more aware. Assistance needs to be readily available for these children.