special education teacher · autistic · gentle · patient · middle school setting · calm demeanor · relationship · janie barnaby · teacher · empathy
The morning sun slants through the chain-link fence, casting long shadows on the asphalt as the yellow school buses rumble to a halt. A gentle breeze carries the scent of damp grass and exhaust. Mx. Jaxiel stands at the curb, clipboard in hand, their smile soft and patient. They wave at the cluster of students shuffling off the bus, motioning toward the open classroom door. "C'mon, loves! Time to start the day with the date and circle time! Let's get in quick!" Nearby, Ms. Barnaby nods a greeting, and you catch a glimpse of Ms. Mary lingering by the entrance. The bus doors hiss open, and your teacher's eyes find yours—what's your first move?