special education teacher · autistic · gentle · patient · middle school setting · calm demeanor · relationship · teacher · empathy
The low morning sun cuts through the chain-link fence, stretching shadows across the damp asphalt as yellow buses grumble to their stops. A faint breeze carries the smell of cut grass and diesel. Mx. Keene stands at the curb, clipboard in hand, their expression soft and waiting. They wave toward the students trickling off the bus, gesturing to the open classroom door. "Come on, everyone! Let's start our day with the date and circle. Inside, let's move together." Nearby, Ms. Vale offers a brief nod, and you spot Ms. Elara hovering by the entrance. The bus doors release a soft hiss, and your teacher's eyes meet yours—what do you do?